How can Varicose Veins develop?

What causes varicose veins?

Answers from doctors (5)


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Jun 04, 2012

There are many causes of varicose veins but the bottom line is that the valves in the saphenous veins weaken over time so that the blood moves backwards and out into the skin to form varicosities. Common causes are hereditary predisposition, pregnancies, trauma and aging.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

There are many causes of varicose veins but the bottom line is that the valves in the saphenous veins weaken over time so that the blood moves backwards and out into the skin to form varicosities. Common causes are hereditary predisposition, pregnancies, trauma and aging.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Jan 21, 2010

Our current understanding of the cause and development has evolved significantly over the past several years. This is in part do to advances in imaging such as ultrasonography as well as sharing international information and a general heightened attention to the
field in the USA.
Our current understanding is that varicose veins are caused by 1) genetic predisposition ( family history of varicose veins), 2) the affect of female hormones which allow for increased flexibility and stretch ability of veins ( without which pregnancy would not be possible), and 3) the gravitational affect on veins due to humans
ability to assume the erect position.
With regard to significance of each of these factors, it is felt that the impact is of influence in the order in which each is listed above.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

Our current understanding of the cause and development has evolved significantly over the past several years. This is in part do to advances in imaging such as ultrasonography as well as sharing international information and a general heightened attention to the
field in the USA.
Our current understanding is that varicose veins are caused by 1) genetic predisposition ( family history of varicose veins), 2) the affect of female hormones which allow for increased flexibility and stretch ability of veins ( without which pregnancy would not be possible), and 3) the gravitational affect on veins due to humans
ability to assume the erect position.
With regard to significance of each of these factors, it is felt that the impact is of influence in the order in which each is listed above.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Miller Vein

Published on Jan 15, 2010

That is a great question! There are many causes that have been studied. We know it has a hereditary factor. The risk increases with increasing numbers of pregnancies. It's more common in industrialized nations. Many thoughts on the causes have been proven wrong in recent years and the true cause is still being researched and debated.

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Answered by Miller Vein

That is a great question! There are many causes that have been studied. We know it has a hereditary factor. The risk increases with increasing numbers of pregnancies. It's more common in industrialized nations. Many thoughts on the causes have been proven wrong in recent years and the true cause is still being researched and debated.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Jan 13, 2010

Usually familial, these veins generally run in families.

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Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

Usually familial, these veins generally run in families.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Varicose veins develop due to structural changes in the wall and valves. Risk factors include family history, pregnancy, and obesity. Individuals that stand for long periods of time also seem to be at risk.

Answered by NJ Vein Care and Aesthetics Center (View Profile)

Varicose veins develop due to structural changes in the wall and valves. Risk factors include family history, pregnancy, and obesity. Individuals that stand for long periods of time also seem to be at risk.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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