If you’re wondering “why do I have varicose veins at 20,” this article is for you.
We associated
varicose veins and other vein problems with the elderly. However, aging is just one factor in the development of venous disease.
Varicose veins in young adults
Unfortunately, it’s becoming more and more common to see younger people with varicose veins and other vein problems. Doctors and health care providers across the United States are reporting higher incidences of venous disease in young adults.
Causes of varicose veins in young adults
The biggest culprit for developing varicose veins at 20 is genetics. Venous disease is often hereditary. If your parents or grandparents had it, you’re likely to develop it at some point too. However, your lifestyle also matters.
A major contributing factor to the development of varicose veins is the increase of pressure in the veins in your legs. Certain activities lead to this increase of pressure. A few include:
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Standing or sitting all day
- Not being active or moving around
- Wearing restrictive clothing, shoes, or equipment
- Taking medications that impact circulation
Let’s take a more in depth look at a few of these items.
Obesity
Obesity continues to be an issue plaguing the American public, the result of living a sedentary lifestyle and eating unhealthy foods.
Obesity and varicose veins often go together. When you are overweight, it puts more pressure on your legs, which can led to varicose veins.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is another culprit for varicose veins in young adults. During pregnancy, you are more susceptible to developing blood clots and varicose veins. As your uterus grows, your blood volume increases resulting in fluid retention. Your body starts to slow the flow of blood through the veins in preparation for pregnancy and childbirth. This slowdown is what contributes to varicose veins during pregnancy.
Fashion
Wearing the wrong clothes can also be a factor in the development of varicose veins. Tight clothing can cause poor circulation. Tight clothing is more commonly worn by women (leggings, bike shorts, etc.) but this also can be a problem for men wearing skinny or slim cut pants that impact circulation when sitting.
How to prevent varicose veins
By now, you should have learned that some ways to prevent varicose veins include getting exercise, being active, eating healthy, and avoiding tight clothing.
However, many of us don’t just have the luxury of doing whatever we want, whenever we want. We have school or jobs to attend and work to do.
If your day consists of a lot of sitting or standing, we highly recommend you try to move around every hour. You also could try elevating your legs, when possible, and doing leg exercises. Compression stockings or socks can also help prevent varicose veins.
Varicose Veins in 20s? Visit A San Diego Vein Specialist
If you suffer from varicose veins, spider veins, or have other vein or circulation issues, you should consult with a medical professional. At
Kafri Wellness Clinic, we have over 25+ years of experience working with patients to address varicose veins and spider veins. We also take into consideration a cardiovascular approach towards your treatment to give you as much insight into your health as possible. If you’d like to schedule a consultation to learn how we can help you, please
contact us today!
