When you read the words ‘varicose veins,’ which age group do you think of? If you are like most people, you probably think of older adults in their 60s and 70s. Varicose veins are rarely associated with young adults but the truth is, young adults are also likely to develop the condition.
Varicose veins are enlarged and twisted veins that appear on the skin. While they can develop anywhere on the body, they are most common on the legs and feet. Veins become varicose when there is more pressure on them than they can handle, causing them to become enlarged, gnarled, and damaged. Varicose veins can also develop due to a defect or condition that prevents the valve system in the veins from properly working, hindering the blood passing through the vein to flow in the right direction.
While varicose veins are a cosmetic issue for some people, it can also become a health problem and lead to serious conditions if it goes untreated.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of varicose veins are:
- Purple, blue, or dark-colored veins
- Twisted or bulging veins
- Pain, burning, throbbing, soreness, or tingling in the legs (where varicose veins are more likely to occur)
- Slower speed of healing of wounds on the legs
- Frequent ulcers on the legs
These symptoms can happen to people of all ages, so if you are a young adult and experience them, it’s time to see a vein specialist to get diagnosed and explore your treatment options.
Risk Factors
There are risk factors that increase your chances of developing varicose veins. Some of them include aging, years of wear and tear on the veins, and menopause. While these risk factors are associated with older people, a lot of the risks can also be associated with young adults – which is why young adults are also prone to developing varicose veins. Some of the risk factors that also affect young adults are:
- Hereditary – Individuals with family members who have varicose veins are more likely to develop the condition in their lifetimes. The condition can manifest itself at any age when genetics are the culprit; it’s not necessary for the individual to be a certain age before it surfaces.
- Blood Conditions – Some blood conditions increase the chances of a person developing varicose veins. For example, if you’re at risk of developing blood clots, you have an increased risk of developing varicose veins.
- Injury – Injury to a body part can also trigger varicose veins. Skin trauma caused by an accident can damage the veins. It is also possible to develop varicose veins as a result of a previous surgical procedure that caused damaged to the skin and veins.
- Occupations – One of the biggest reasons for varicose veins is excessive pressure on healthy veins. Certain occupations are physically demanding, which puts pressure on the body. Some examples are cashiers, nurses, or automobile technicians, who have to stand all day to do their jobs. These occupations put pressure on the legs and feet for extended periods of time, which increases the chances of a person developing varicose veins.
- Weight – As is the case with occupational risk, carrying around extra weight on the body also puts pressure on the body’s veins. Obese individuals are more likely to develop varicose veins because of this.
- Hormonal Changes – Hormone changes can also trigger varicose veins. This can happen during puberty and pregnancy. This is why women have an increased chance of developing varicose veins during their pregnancies.
- Birth Control – Certain birth control medications increase the risk a person develops varicose veins because of the hormonal changes they induce.
A great way to make sure you recognize and treat varicose veins in a fast and effective way is to have a vein specialist examine you. Premier Vein & Vascular has a wealth of knowledge and experience diagnosing and treating conditions like varicose veins. If you would like to have a reliable and high-quality vein clinic on your side, call Premier Vein & Vascular at 1-888-VEINCARE today to make an appointment.
