What Are Risk Factors For Incompetent Veins?
There are many reasons why veins dilate and become incompetent. Age is a primary factor. The walls of the veins contain elastic that allows them to stretch and contract with the blood flow. As we become older, the elastic slowly wears out. It is also damaged by overstretching, similar to a stretched out elastic waistband on an undergarment. If a vein is dilated beyond a certain point, the elastic is weakened and the vein walls no longer are able to function correctly. Veins are also dilated by certain occupations that require standing for prolonged periods producing venous stasis. Nurses, auto mechanics, store personnel and waitresses are examples. These types of occupations make high demands on the venous system. In women, pregnancy plays a major role. The increased pressure in the lower abdomen during pregnancy makes it difficult for the veins of the legs to drain and creates back pressure in the leg veins. This back pressure dilates the veins and is responsible for the varicose vein
