Varicose veins are large, raised, and swollen veins that are twisted and appear red, blue, or skin-coloured. Varicose veins can be seen in any part of the body; however, these are commonly observed in the legs and pelvic region. In some patients, varicose veins are an aesthetic concern, whereas some patients having varicose veins experience pain that can be an indication of serious health issues.
Are Varicose Veins Hereditary?
Yes, varicose veins are hereditary. Researchers have found that varicose veins can be caused by genetic factors, which can be transferred from parent to child. You cannot inherit varicose veins directly from your parents or grandparents, but you will receive a genetic disposition to develop varicose veins from them. The gene that carries varicose veins is inherited from our parents and this has a type of collagen that makes the valves in the veins. When this collagen becomes weak, then you will develop varicose veins. In various epidemiological studies conducted across Europe, it was observed that people who are suffering from varicose veins do have a family history of varicose veins.
What Should I Do If Varicose Veins are Running in My Family?
Varicose veins generally occur due to the combinatory effects of hereditary factors and environmental factors. If these factors are high, then you will develop varicose veins. It is not possible to control the hereditary factors, but you can be able to control the environmental factors that contribute to varicose veins by lifestyle modifications.
Risk Factors of Varicose Veins
If you have a family history of varicose veins or you are experiencing symptoms related to the development of varicose veins, then you should take care of the following risk factors to prevent the development of varicose veins:
- Pregnancy: In pregnancy, there will be pressure exerted on our inferior vena cava that could cause varicose veins. Take proper care of varicose veins that could appear in pregnancy, and it will diminish after childbirth.
- Overweight: If you are overweight, pressure will be exerted on the veins of the lower extremities and make the veins less efficient to send back the blood to the heart, which causes varicose veins. Lose the weight to minimize the risk, and in case, if you already have varicose veins, then losing weight help in diminishing the veins.
- Continuously standing or sitting: The people who stand or sit continuously are at risk of developing varicose veins. If you are doing a job, which requires standing continuously, then you should make a habit of sitting down and elevating your legs during break time. In case, your job requires sitting for a longer period of time, then standing up and stretching the body every hour will reduce the risk of developing varicose veins.
- Age: Generally, people develop varicose veins at 50 years of age. Our veins will age like us, the valves of the veins will become less efficient and increase the risk of developing varicose veins. Regular exercise and a healthy diet will minimize the risk.
Looking for Varicose Veins Treatment? Visit Dr. Pradyumna Reddy
In case, you are diagnosed with varicose veins, or you would like to reduce the risks of developing varicose veins, then schedule an appointment with Dr. Pradyumna Reddy to explore suitable treatment options.
Dr. Pradyumna Reddy is a well-known interventional radiologist in Hyderabad, who has been carrying an experience of 6 years in various radiological procedures. He is well-versed with basic and advanced radiology methods and is proficient in treating varicose. Dr. Pradyumna Reddy is an expert in performing endovenous laser ablation for varicose veins, varicose veins radio-frequency ablation, etc.
