Whilst there are some things that may stop us from being at risk of varicose veins, such as not being overweight or having a job that doesn’t require much standing, some things cannot be avoided. From pregnancy to gender and genetics, these are things mostly beyond our control.

Am I More At Risk If My Parents Have Varicose Veins?

Research has shown that varicose veins can be caused by genetic factors from both your maternal and paternal genes. You may not necessarily get varicose veins directly from your mother or father, or even your grandparents, but you will inherit a genetic disposition to develop varicose veins. This comes from the type of collagen we have inherited from our genes, as collagen makes up the valves in the veins which become weak and therefore cause varicose veins. You may often find a family history of varicose veins if you are a sufferer, and this has been proven in many epidemiological studies carried out throughout Europe.

Are There Any Other Hereditary Factors?

Whilst there are many things that are hereditary, not many will cause varicose veins. The most common causes are environmental such as pregnancy and obesity. Whilst some people may argue that obesity is hereditary, this depends on environmental factors. If your parents are overweight, there is more chance of you being overweight too and this can cause extra pressure on your veins, leading to varicose veins.

What Can I Do If There Is A Family History?

Varicose veins can be caused by a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. The more of these factors you have, the higher your chance of varicose veins. You cannot control your family history and many of the other factors that cause varicose veins. Being in control of anything you can do to prevent varicose veins, such as your weight or how long you are standing on a day-to-day basis, will decrease your chances of developing them. Ask your parents if they know of any family history of varicose veins if you believe you are getting them yourself.
If you have varicose veins in the family, you are more likely to be a sufferer, but this doesn’t mean that you definitely will be. If you feel a change in the veins in your legs recently and there is a family history, contact us today to schedule an appointment with the best varicose vein doctor in NYC.