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Causes and Symptoms of Varicose Veins

Varicose vein treatment in Beverly Hills

Some people get varicose veins simply because of family history. But anything that places pressure and weight on your legs can lead to the appearance of varicose veins:

  • Sitting or standing for long periods of time
  • Being overweight
  • Pregnancy (because of weight and pressure placed on the legs)

A sedentary lifestyle can also increase your odds of developing this vein problem. If you don’t have much muscular strength in your legs, the muscles may not be very good at supporting the pumping of your blood.

Varicose veins are quite common in the US. Women tend to develop them at a higher rate than men. Other risk factors include:

  • Being older
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy
  • Family history
  • Defective valves
  • Hormonal changes

For the most part, varicose veins don’t really cause any symptoms. But if you do experience symptoms, they may include:

  • Pain and tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Aching
  • Swollen ankles
  • Itching

Varicose veins are caused  by problematic valves. These valves allow blood to collect in the vein, which leads to the appearance of the swollen, bulging and twisted veins.

Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald is a board-certified dermatologist and is extensively experienced in treating varicose veins and spider veins. To arrange a consultation in Beverly Hills to discuss varicose vein treatment, please call our experienced staff at 323-464-8046.