What causes veins?
Many factors play a part in the development of leg veins and over 50% of all people will develop surface and/or varicose veins at sometime. There is a significant relationship between heredity and the development of varicose veins and “spider” veins. If your parents have varicose or spider veins there is a greater likelihood you will develop those abnormal veins. The development of varicose veins and spider veins can occur at any age but usually occurs between the ages of 18 – 35 years, and peaks between 50 and 60 years. Leg vein disorders occur in both men and women, with females being affected more frequently. During pregnancy varicose veins may form but may also disappear shortly after the delivery of the baby. During pregnancy, the enlarged uterus tends to compress veins in the pelvic area causing leg veins to become enlarged. Also, hormone changes during pregnancy can affect the vein wall causing distension and valve damage or leakage. People who are involved with prolonged sittin
