Have you ever looked at your legs and thought, “These veins make my legs look just like my mom’s/dad’s/grandma’s/grandpa’s”? If so, you’re not alone, and you’re not just imagining things. Varicose veins often run in families, and genetics can play a significant role in your chances of developing vein problems.
But here’s the good news: Even if varicose veins are in your family tree, you have the power to reduce your risk and manage symptoms. With help from a vein expert and some simple lifestyle changes, you can protect your legs and stay active, confident, and healthy.
Not every “vein expert” brings the experience, resources, and nationwide support of the nation's largest physician-led vein center. At Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), our scale (120+ vein centers and growing!) means more than just convenience; it ensures consistency, quality, and innovation in care. From advanced training and technology to a rigorous focus on safety, our commitment goes beyond the basics. When you choose CVR, you’re not just getting treatment, you’re getting the trusted care of a national leader in vein health.
Varicose veins may be in your family, but they don’t have to be in your future! A quick, painless evaluation at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) can give you the answers you want and a personalized plan you need to keep your legs healthy for the long run. Schedule your appointment with the industry leaders today!
📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-965-3915
📅 Or book online HERE
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often appear on the legs. They’re caused by a condition called venous insufficiency, which means the valves in your veins aren’t working correctly. When these tiny one-way valves weaken or fail, blood flows backward and pools in the veins. This pressure causes the veins to stretch, bulge, and become visible under the skin.
Spider veins are smaller, web-like versions of varicose veins. While they’re usually cosmetic, both can signal problems with circulation that may get worse over time.
Yes, varicose veins can be hereditary. According to a genetic study reported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), if one of your parents has varicose veins, your chances of developing them are about 40 percent. If both parents have them, your risk jumps to as high as 90 percent. That’s because certain traits, like weak vein walls or faulty valves, can be passed down through your genes.
Thanks, Mom and Dad.
Here’s what’s different today than when your parents and grandparents dealt with problems veins: Modern vein treatments are faster, easier, and more effective than ever before.
Today, outpatient procedures are minimally invasive, don’t require stitches or general anesthesia, and patients can drive themselves home the same day. You can return to your routine with few restrictions, and yes, insurance is accepted.
Earlier generations didn’t have these options. You do.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak with a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.
Researchers are still exploring the exact genetic connection. Some studies have found links to specific genes, including the FOXC2 gene, which affects how blood vessels develop. A 2005 study in the journal Circulation found that mutations in this gene may lead to valve problems in the veins, which is a key part of what causes varicose veins.
According to a study reported by the National Library of Medicine (NIH), while the science is still evolving, many experts agree: There is a genetic component to varicose veins, even if it’s not fully understood yet.
While your genes are part of the picture, they’re not the only factor. Other risk factors for vein disease include:
If you’re at risk, either due to family history or lifestyle, it’s important to watch for early symptoms of vein disease. These include:
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait. These symptoms may be early warnings of venous insufficiency, a progressive condition that won’t improve on its own. The sooner you see a board-certified Center for Vein Restoration vein specialist, the more options you’ll have to treat the problem before it worsens.
👉 Schedule your consultation today at Center for Vein Restoration and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable legs.
You may not be able to change your genes, but you can protect your veins through smart daily habits. Here’s what vein experts recommend:
1. Get Moving
Regular physical activity helps improve circulation and strengthens the muscles that support your veins. Walking, biking, or swimming are all excellent options.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Extra weight puts pressure on your legs and makes it harder for your veins to function properly. Losing even a small amount of weight can make a difference.
3. Wear Compression Stockings
Compression socks or stockings gently squeeze the legs, encouraging blood flow and reducing swelling. Your vein specialist may recommend medical-grade compression if you’re at risk.
4. Elevate Your Legs
When you rest, try propping your legs up above heart level to help blood drain more easily from the lower limbs.
5. Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing
Change positions frequently throughout the day. If you sit at a desk, stand up and stretch every hour. If you stand for work, shift your weight or walk in place.
6. Quit Smoking
Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of vein disease, especially when combined with other risk factors.
Even with prevention, varicose veins may still develop, especially if your family history of problem veins is strong. At Center for Vein Restoration, our board-certified vein doctors offer the latest vein treatment options, including:
All treatments are performed in-office with little to no downtime, so you can get back to doing what you love without leg pain or swelling.
If you have varicose veins or a family history that worries you, don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. A board-certified CVR vein expert can assess your risk and help you prevent or treat venous insufficiency before it leads to more serious problems.
👉 Don’t let family history write your story. Take control of your vein health now. The sooner you take action, the better your legs (and your future) will feel!
📅 Schedule your appointment with a CVR vein specialist today.
At Center for Vein Restoration, we’ve helped thousands of patients with hereditary vein disease feel better, look better, and move more confidently. As the largest physician-led vein center in the country, with over 120 locations nationwide, CVR doctors don’t just follow industry standards; they help set them. With advanced training, proven outcomes, and a patient-first approach, we deliver vein care that’s trusted across the U.S.
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