Risk Factors

Anyone, no matter what gender, can develop spider or varicose veins.  However, certain risk factors can make them more likely to form.  Varicose veins usually appear between the ages 30 and 70 and get progressively worse.  The tendency toward vein problems can run in families.  A profession that keeps you on your feet or sitting at a desk all day can attribute to vein problems because your blood doesn’t flow as well if you’re in the same position for long periods of time.  Being overweight is also a risk factor, as there is added pressure on your veins.  Women are more likely than men to develop vein problems, due to pregnancy and hormonal factors (hormonal changes during menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause, or in response to exogenous hormonal therapy, e.g. oral contraceptives).  Female hormones tend to relax vein walls.  Other factors include lack of exercise, and injury (trauma).