Why Do I Get Varicose Veins? Over 80 million Americans experience vein problems, and one of the most common is varicose veins. But what are the causes of varicose veins? Varicose veins form when the vein’s valve—which stops blood from flowing backwards— becomes weak and can no longer stop that reverse blood flow. The blood leaks backwards and settles, stretching and enlarging the vein, and causing a varicose vein to form. It’s a condition that affects both men and women, and can strike people of any age. Here are a few of most common factors in the development of varicose veins:
Simply put, if you have a family member who suffers from varicose veins, you are much more likely to develop the condition. Pregnancy A pregnant woman’s body produces extra blood for the survival of the baby. This extra blood puts excess stress on a woman’s veins, especially the ones in her legs that have to work harder to battle gravity and bring blood to the heart. Additionally, a hormone called progesterone, which dilates blood vessels, is produced in increased amounts during pregnancy. This also increases the risk of varicose vein development since blood flow and pressure increases in dilated blood vessels.