How do varicose veins form?
I have varicose veins, the blood vessels on my legs are bulging and look awful, and it's uncomfortable. May I ask how varicose veins develop?
Doctor's answer (1)
Varicose veins are a type of vascular disease that primarily occurs in the veins of the lower limbs. The main causes include:
1. Congenital factors: Some people are born with weak vein walls or have defects in venous valve function. When venous pressure increases, blood can easily flow backward, causing the veins to expand and ultimately leading to varicose veins.
2. Lifestyle and occupational characteristics: People who stand or sit for prolonged periods, such as salespersons and teachers, often have increased pressure on the leg veins, which impedes blood circulation. Excessive obesity increases the burden on the lower limbs, habitual constipation raises abdominal pressure, and long-term smoking and alcohol consumption can damage blood vessels. These unhealthy lifestyle habits may all contribute to the development of varicose veins.
3. Genetic factors: If someone in the family has this condition, the risk of other family members developing it also increases.
4. Hormonal changes: Conditions such as pregnancy, use of oral contraceptives, or hormone replacement therapy can cause hormonal changes in the body, possibly leading to relaxation of the vein walls and an increased risk of varicose veins.
5. Aging: As people age, the elasticity of the vein walls gradually decreases, and the function of the valves may also decline, increasing the likelihood of developing varicose veins.
6. Special circumstances: Women who have had multiple pregnancies experience hormonal changes and pressure on the leg veins due to an enlarged uterus, making them prone to varicose veins. Prolonged exposure of the lower limbs to cold water can cause abnormal vascular constriction function, which may also lead to varicose veins.
If signs of varicose veins appear, timely medical treatment is recommended.
