Varicose veins: causes, risk factors, and prevention

Varicose veins develop when vein walls malfunction, causing blood to accumulate rather than flow efficiently toward the heart. This process is often driven by the failure of vein valves, which are designed to act as anti-reflux mechanisms. As blood pools, pressure increases and the vein walls swell.

Several factors contribute to the development of these veins, including heredity, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles. Certain professions that require prolonged standing or constant shifting of weight also increase risk. Women are more frequently affected due to hormonal factors, including those related to pregnancy.

To mitigate risks and improve venous return, experts recommend regular physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, to engage calf muscles which act as a pump for blood circulation. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding prolonged immobility—whether sitting or standing—are also key preventative measures. While heat can exacerbate symptoms by dilating veins, avoiding tight clothing that restricts circulation is equally important for managing leg discomfort.