What causes varicose veins and how to prevent them
If you’re dealing with varicose veins, you’ve probably already asked yourself, “Why do I have them?”. We know; they’re unaesthetic, and they can affect daily comfort and even self-esteem. But the good news is that once identified, there are solutions. With the right treatment and the advice of an experienced vein doctor, you can say goodbye to varicose veins.
If you don’t have varicose veins, but you’re afraid they might show up one day, this article will clearly and simply explain what causes varicose veins and how to prevent them.
- Understanding varicose veins
- Causes of varicose veins vs. common myths
- Early symptoms you shouldn’t ignore
- How to prevent varicose veins?
- Varicose vein treatment – Before & After
- What causes varicose veins and other FAQs
- Conclusion
Understanding varicose veins
On the surface, we can recognize varicose veins by their specific appearance: swollen, twisted veins that appear under the skin, most often on the legs. Sometimes they’re blue or purple and slightly bulging. Other times, they’re accompanied by discomfort, a heavy feeling, itching or even pain.
But how exactly do our veins get to this point?
In our body, veins carry blood back to the heart. In the legs, this happens against gravity, and the veins have small valves that prevent blood from flowing backward. When these valves stop working properly, the blood stagnates, and the veins become dilated, resulting in what we call varicose veins.
Causes of varicose veins vs. common myths
Varicose veins are a genetic condition. That means that if you have close family members (mother, father, grandparents, uncles or aunts) who are dealing with this issue, your risk is higher. But that does NOT mean you’ll definitely have varicose veins too. It just means it’s good to be aware of the symptoms and take prevention steps early on.
Watch a short video where Dr. Omar – vein specialist with over 18 years of experience – clearly and simply explains what’s behind the appearance of varicose veins.
There are a number of myths that circulate among people about what causes varicose veins. Let’s see what these myths are:
- Pregnancy – No, pregnancy does not cause varicose veins. However, if you already have varicose veins when you get pregnant, the symptoms can worsen during pregnancy. That’s why, if you’re planning to become a mother, consider a consultation and, if needed, a vein treatment beforehand.
- High heels – Ladies, you’re safe! No, wearing high heels is not a direct cause of varicose veins. As we said, it’s a genetic condition.
- Sitting down / office work – A sedentary lifestyle isn’t ideal for your health, but without a genetic predisposition, it does NOT cause varicose veins. If you work while sitting at your desk, stand up every hour and move a bit, not necessarily out of fear of varicose veins, but for your overall health.
Dr Omar explained what would happen today plus what causes varicose veins and other issues related to vein health in a way I could understand. He was very thorough and considerate. I feel very confident in him being the lead for my treatment (review verified by Doctify).
Early symptoms you shouldn’t ignore
Most common symptoms of varicose veins:
- Visible, twisted, bulging veins
- Heavy feeling in the legs
- Pain, burning or throbbing around the veins
- Ankle swelling, especially in the evening
- Muscle cramps, especially at night
Less common symptoms that can also appear:
- Itching around affected veins
- Skin color changes (hyperpigmentation)
- Dryness, irritation, venous eczema
- Venous ulcers – in advanced, untreated cases
If you notice these signs, a consultation with a vein specialist is recommended.
How to prevent varicose veins?
Even though we can’t fully control the appearance of varicose veins, the good news is that we can positively influence vein health through healthy habits. Here’s what you can do:
- Stay active – movement is very important! Walking, biking, dancing, swimming, tennis – any activity that stimulates blood circulation is welcome.
- Compression stockings – if your doctor recommends compression stockings, wear them! They help improve circulation and reduce discomfort.
- Proper hydration – water helps keep the blood fluid and prevents it from stagnating in the veins. Drink enough water every day.
Dr Omar was friendly and explained what he was going to do well. During the operation he instilled me with confidence by talking through each step and telling me what to expect. (review verified by Doctify)
Varicose vein treatment – Before & After
Medical technology has come a long way. Today, there’s no need for complicated surgeries to treat varicose veins. There are minimally invasive options like laser vein treatments (EVLA) or even non-invasive ones – SONOVEIN: High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU). Let’s look at a few before & after images of Dr. Omar’s patients who received the varicose vein treatment.
I cannot speak highly enough of my care and treatment. Dr Omar has such a professional and caring approach. He demonstrates outstanding expertise and I’m thrilled the outcome of my treatment. (review verified on topdoctors.co.uk).
What causes varicose veins and other FAQs
- What causes varicose veins?
The cause is genetic. If you have relatives dealing with varicose veins, your chances of developing this condition increase. - Is the treatment for varicose veins painful?
The treatment is done under local anesthesia. The patient only feels the needle sting, then just the sensation that something is happening in the area, but no actual pain. After the procedure, only 1 in 10 patients needs simple Paracetamol. - Does treatment require anesthesia?
Yes, but only local anesthesia. After the procedure, the patient can immediately return to normal activities. - How long does it take to recover from varicose veins treatment?
Recovery is basically zero. Walking is recommended immediately after the procedure. Patients can go shopping or even to work the same day. - How long does varicose vein treatment take?
In general, the procedure takes between 1 and 1.5 hours. Dr. Omar recommends patients come with jokes or funny stories, because the whole experience is relaxed and friendly.
Conclusion
Varicose veins don’t have to define your life or affect your well-being. With the help of a dedicated vein doctor and modern treatments, you can once again enjoy beautiful, healthy legs.
Book a consultation with Dr. Omar – phlebologist and venous surgeon with over 18 years of experience, over 99% success rate, 56+ international certifications and awarded together with the team from The Whiteley Clinic with the title “Best Varicose Veins Treatment – UK 2020.”
You can find him in:
Take care of yourself and your venous health. It’s time to feel comfortable in your own skin again.
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