We will be closed on Monday, February 19th for Presidents Day.

What Causes Vein Problems?

Millions of people have some form of vein disease. Many factors contribute to chronic vein disease and the development of varicose veins, including genetic and environmental factors. Certainly, if multiple family members have problems with varicose veins, then you might have more of a tendency for vein problems. Even if there is no significant history of vein disease in the family, your genes may play a role and make you more prone to problems. Our lifestyle is also a factor. People who stand or sit for prolonged periods of time, individuals who are overweight and less active, those with a history of blood clots or injury, and women who have multiple pregnancies are at increased risk of problems.

Women generally suffer from venous insufficiency more than men. Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone play a role throughout a woman’s life, especially during pregnancy. Women taking birth control pills and those who have had multiple pregnancies have a greater risk of venous disease. Pregnancy exposes women to significant alterations in the levels of these hormones and increases the circulating blood volume. Furthermore, as the baby enlarges, it puts more pressure on the veins of the pelvis. These factors, combined with the increase in intra-abdominal pressure from the baby, make it more difficult for the blood from the legs to return to the heart. These factors increase pressure in the leg veins, causing them to dilate. Fortunately, after the baby is delivered, the hormones and fluid changes return to normal and some of these dilated veins may regress. Subsequent pregnancies will cause similar changes and possible progression of the vein problems.

Call for an appointment, today!

(801) 261-8346
5323 South Woodrow St.
Salt Lake City, Utah 84107

(801) 476-8346
1486 E. Skyline Drive, Suite 201
South Ogden, Utah 84405