Can Young People Get Varicose Veins?

While varicose veins are more commonly associated with older adults, they can occur in people of all ages, including young adults. While the risk of developing varicose veins increases with age, there are several factors that can increase the likelihood of developing varicose veins at a younger age, including:

1. Genetics: A family history of varicose veins increases the likelihood of developing the varicose veins.  While it is impossible to escape this risk factor, read the next one before you blame your mom for your varicose veins.

2. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased pressure on the veins during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing varicose veins.  This is where your mom can blame you for her varicose veins.  These hormonal changes are similar to those just before a menstrual cycle and often trigger discomfort from varicose veins just before a menstrual cycle.

3. Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra pressure on the veins, increasing the risk of varicose veins.  One common misconception is that varicose veins, leg swelling, and venous insufficiency are only due to obesity.  We frequently see very thin patients with severe venous insufficiency and large, bulging varicose veins.  Some people feel like weight loss triggered their varicose veins to form.  This is also a misconception.  When fat disappears from just beneath the skin, the existing varicose veins become more visible.

4. Inactivity: Sitting or standing for long periods of time without moving can make it harder for blood to circulate properly, increasing the risk of varicose veins.  If you have a job that requires prolonged sitting or standing still, it is important to walk for a few minutes every 30 minutes or so.

5. Trauma: Injury to the legs can damage the veins and increase the risk of varicose veins.  This usually involves direct injury such as a hit to the leg with a softball or similar object.

While varicose veins may be more common in older adults, young people can still develop the condition.  Varicose veins and venous insufficiency, like many chronic diseases, presents as a spectrum of severity.  In our experience, patients who have problems at a young age tend to progress more rapidly through the stages of venous insufficiency, so it is important to seek help from a vein specialist before permanent swelling, discoloration, or other complications occur. 

It's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a healthy diet, to help reduce the risk of developing varicose veins at any age. 

If you are experiencing symptoms of varicose veins or are concerned about your risk, schedule an appointment at Aleman Vein Center today.