Are Varicose Veins Genetic?

Are Varicose Veins Inherited?

Family genetics play a huge role in so many aspects of our lives. The term “genetics” refers to the way certain characteristics are passed down from generation to generation due to changes in DNA. These can be both physical or emotional qualities in a person. Genes are a specific part of a DNA sequence that is responsible for the construction of these particular traits that are passed from parent to child. 

Genetics are responsible for an individual’s appearance, i.e., eye, hair and skin color, height, and body type. Genetics also play a role in how introverted or extroverted a person is, how they deal with stress, and other ways in which the mind works. Genetics can also determine a person’s risk for the likelihood of developing certain diseases and health conditions, one of which are varicose veins.

 

Risk Factors for Varicose Veins

One of the main risk factors for developing varicose veins is genetics. People with at least one parent who has had varicose veins at some point in their life are more likely to inherit this venous condition. 

However, the risk of genetic varicose veins can be decreased if you make simple lifestyle changes to promote healthy blood flow and circulation in the body. You can also decrease your genetic risk by regularly seeing a vein expert, such as Dr. Susan B. Fox at Fox Vein & Laser Experts, in order to keep a close watch on your vein health. That way, if even the slightest appearance of varicose veins starts to appear or you start to experience the symptoms associated with varicose veins, your Fort Lauderdale vein doctor can take the necessary steps for vein treatment before the varicose veins get worse.

 

What Are The Causes?

While genetics are a risk factor for varicose veins that are out of your control, your habits in life are in your control. Varicose veins are caused when the veins become weak or damaged, which typically occurs due to some kind of excess pressure being put on the veins that prevent them from working effectively to allow blood to flow through them toward the heart.

Obesity is one of the main causes of vein deficiency because the extra weight puts added pressure on the veins. That’s why maintaining a healthy diet — staying away from excess salt and ensuring proper hydration — is crucial to vein health. Following a regular exercise routine is also very important. You don’t have to spend hours in the gym, lifting weights and running all the time. Even just committing to walking outside for about 10-15 minutes per day is enough to keep blood flow moving and promote good circulation in the veins. Being inactive and living a sedentary lifestyle without regular exercise puts you at more risk for developing varicose veins, even if you don’t have a family history of the condition. 

If your job requires you to sit at a desk or be on your feet all day, it’s ideal to figure out a way to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day. Staying in either of these positions for extended periods of time can put pressure on the veins and increase the chances of developing varicose veins. For example, if you’re required to be at a desk, take a break every 30 minutes or so to at least get-up and stretch, and if your work environment allows it, take a short walk around the block or even just your office building. 

 

Conclusion

Having a family history of varicose veins may increase your risk of getting them, but it does not mean that you are destined to suffer. By making small changes to your everyday life, you can decrease the risk and improve your health.

If varicose veins do run in your family, be proactive and schedule a consultation with a vein expert at Fox Vein & Laser Experts, and maintain follow-up appointments so you are always on top of your vein health. Call our office at 954-627-1045 to book a consultation, or schedule an appointment online.