As we age, our bodies undergo various changes—some we anticipate, like graying hair or the occasional achy joint, while others seem to sneak up on us, like varicose veins. You're not alone if you notice more visible veins on your legs or are experiencing leg pain and swelling. After all, with each birthday, our veins like to remind us they're not getting any younger either!
Many people over age 50 begin to see these signs of vein issues, and it’s natural to wonder if they're just an inevitable part of aging. But are varicose veins truly unavoidable, or is there something you can do to maintain healthy veins as you age?
Let's explore the science behind aging veins and share some practical tips for keeping your vein health in check.
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that usually appear on the legs. They are the result of vein disease, and they occur when the tiny valves inside veins weaken or become damaged, allowing blood to pool instead of flowing smoothly back to the heart. This leads to those bulging, rope-like veins that so many people dread.
The simple answer is no—they’re not entirely unavoidable because inescapable factors such as age, sex, and genetics increase risk.
A study published by the National Library of Medicine (NIH) titled Clinical and Genetic Determinants of Varicose Veins looked at clinical and genetic factors contributing to varicose veins using data from nearly 500,000 individuals in the UK. Researchers found links to vascular and skeletal development, suggesting a genetic component in varicose vein development.
Interestingly, they also found a causal relationship between height and varicose veins, with taller people more inclined to develop varicose veins.
If your parents or grandparents had varicose veins, there’s a higher chance you might develop them, too. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and manage the symptoms as you age:
When it comes to treating vein disease, Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) is a leader in the vein health field, specializing in comprehensive care for varicose veins. Our team of highly trained vein doctors offers the latest minimally invasive treatments tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
CVR accepts many insurances, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, and more.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.
Spider veins, which are smaller and closer to the skin’s surface, are similar to varicose veins but less severe. While they’re usually considered a cosmetic concern, they can sometimes indicate underlying venous insufficiency. Spider veins are also more common as you age, and, like varicose veins, they can be influenced by genetics, prolonged standing, and hormonal changes.
It's not uncommon to dismiss varicose or spider veins as merely a cosmetic issue. However, vein disease can sometimes lead to more serious health problems if left untreated. If you're experiencing persistent leg pain, swelling, skin changes, or ulcers, seeing a vein expert for an evaluation is important because untreated venous insufficiency can lead to blood clots, ulcers, and chronic discomfort.
Luckily, there are effective office-based treatments available for varicose and spider veins. With these modern outpatient vein treatments available at Center for Vein Restoration, you no longer have to live with the discomfort of varicose veins!
With these cutting-edge treatments at Center for Vein Restoration, you can finally say goodbye to the discomfort of varicose veins and enjoy healthier legs without downtime. You'll be back to your routine in no time, feeling better and looking great!
While aging does increase the likelihood of developing varicose veins, it doesn't mean they're entirely unavoidable. By staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and seeking guidance from a CVR vein doctor, you can manage and even prevent some of the common vein problems associated with aging.
Whether you're experiencing leg pain, swelling, or unsightly veins, our CVR vein experts will help restore your vein health and enhance your overall well-being. With a commitment to providing safe, effective solutions, Center for Vein Restoration ensures you’re in the best hands in venous care.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.