Medically reviewed by Peter Liao, MD, PhD, on August 8, 2025
Varicose veins are more than a simple cosmetic condition; they can cause aching, swelling, and discomfort, sometimes signaling a deeper issue with how your veins are working. If you’ve noticed enlarged, twisted veins on your legs or feel heaviness and fatigue after standing, you might be experiencing vein disease, the root cause of varicose veins.
Many people are unaware that heredity and genetics can play a key role in whether varicose veins appear (and at what age). If your legs look a lot like your mom’s or dad’s did, especially with visible veins, it’s probably not a coincidence.
In this blog, Peter Liao, MD, PhD, lead vein physician at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) vein clinics in Rosedale, MD, and Lutherville (Towson), MD, discusses what varicose veins are, how family history impacts your risk, and what you can do to protect your vein health, whether you’re already dealing with symptoms or want to stay ahead of them.
Schedule a consultation with the experts at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) today. We’ll help you understand your risks and guide you toward the best care for your legs. Call our Patient Services Representatives at 240-965-3915 or click below to book online at a CVR vein clinic near you conveniently.
📅To schedule an appointment with Dr. Liao in Rosedale, MD, CLICK HERE
📅To schedule an appointment with Dr. Liao in Lutherville (Towson), MD, CLICK HERE
📅Or, schedule an appointment at any of CVR’s 115+ vein clinics nationwide: CLICK HERE
Your veins have the essential job of carrying blood back toward your heart. In your legs, this means working against the direction of gravity. Veins have small one-way valves that open to direct blood upward and close to stop it from flowing backward.
Varicose veins form when these valves weaken or fail.
Blood pools in the vein, causing it to stretch, twist, and extend outward. The result is those familiar blue or purple rope-like veins that appear just under the skin, most often on the legs, ankles, or feet.
Common varicose vein symptoms include:
While some people see varicose veins as a simple cosmetic nuisance, these vessels can expand and continue to progress to more serious conditions such as leg ulcers if left untreated.
If one or both of your parents had varicose veins, you’re not imagining things if you see the same pattern in yourself. Genetics plays a big part in your likelihood of developing this condition.
A well-known family study in the National Library of Medicine researched how varicose veins run in families and found that:
Why does this happen? Scientists believe that hereditary weakness in the vein walls or valves can make some people more prone to vein dysfunction. This inherited tendency means your veins might be more likely to stretch or your valves more likely to fail over time.
Keep in mind that women tend to be more affected than men, partly due to hormonal changes, which can also have a genetic component. Pregnancy, menopause, and the use of hormone-based birth control can all influence vein health in people who are genetically predisposed.
Sure, your family history might raise your risk, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Daily lifestyle habits can have a big impact too. Understanding what contributes to vein issues can help you stay informed and spot the signs early.
Let’s look at some of the main risk factors of vein disease as a whole:
Whether or not you already have varicose veins, several daily habits can support your vein health, especially if you have a strong family history.
Here are some daily habits you can adopt to keep your veins working well:
Daily routines are powerful tools for vein health, and diet is one of the most impactful. The infographic below, adapted from recent presentation materials created by Dr. Liao, highlights more nutritional tips and regular habits that can help keep your veins strong and your circulation flowing:
If you’ve already noticed varicose veins or experience symptoms, you’re not stuck with them. Today’s professional vein treatments are minimally invasive, safe, and often done right in the office. Plus, there’s little or no downtime.
Some of the most effective options include:
At CVR, your care plan is tailored to your symptoms, medical history, and personal goals. From symptom relief to cosmetic improvement, you're in expert hands.
Ready to take control of your vein health? Our compassionate team is here to help, whether you're managing symptoms or simply looking for peace of mind about your family history.
📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-965-3915
📅 Or book online HERE
Varicose veins can be frustrating, especially if they seem to be a family trait. But with the right knowledge and support, you can protect your veins, reduce discomfort, and feel better about your legs in every way.
Whether you're trying to prevent future issues or address existing symptoms, remember that while genetics may be part of the picture, your choices matter too.
Let the specialists at CVR help you take the next step toward healthier, pain-free legs. Call our Patient Services Representatives at 240-965-3915 or click below to book a consultation at a vein clinic near you.
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