What Causes Varicose Veins?
Medically verified
Last updated on 1/29/2026
By Dr. Michael Nguyen
Vein Doctor at Vein Treatment Clinic
Harvard Medical School
Board Certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine
Many patients assume varicose veins are caused by something they did wrong. In reality, vein disease usually develops due to a combination of biological and lifestyle factors.
If you’re unsure which factors may be contributing to your veins, a vein evaluation can help clarify the cause.
Table of contents
1. Valve failure inside the veins
2. Genetics and family history
3. Why varicose veins are more common with age
4. Pregnancy and hormonal changes
5. Prolonged standing or sitting
6. Excess weight and increased vein pressure
7. Previous blood clots or vein injury
8. Do lifestyle factors cause varicose veins?
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Valve failure inside the veins
When valves weaken or stop closing properly, blood flows backward and pools in the vein, increasing pressure and stretching the vein walls.
Genetics and family history
Genetics play a major role in varicose vein development. People with close family members who have varicose veins are more likely to develop them.
Inherited vein wall weakness or valve structure increases susceptibility, even in otherwise healthy individuals.
Does vein disease run in your family? Schedule a Preventative Evaluation
Why varicose veins are more common with age
These age-related changes increase the likelihood of blood pooling and vein enlargement.
Symptom Checker
Pregnancy and hormonal changes
Varicose veins may improve after pregnancy, but underlying valve damage can persist.
Prolonged standing or sitting
Over time, this increases vein pressure and accelerates valve dysfunction.
Excess weight and increased vein pressure
Additional body weight increases pressure on the veins in the legs, making it harder for blood to return to the heart.
While weight alone does not cause varicose veins, it can worsen existing vein disease.
Worried about weight-related vein pain? Consult an Expert Today
Previous blood clots or vein injury
This damage increases the risk of developing varicose veins later on.
Results that speak for themselves
You can expect results like these with our specialized treatments for spider & varicose veins performed by the best experts in the country.
Before
After
A 37-year-old patient visited our Vein Treatment Clinic, seeking relief from unsightly and painful varicose and spider veins. We performed radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments, significantly improving the veins’ appearance and completely eliminating discomfort. The patient is now enjoying a more active and pain-free lifestyle.
Before
After
A 69 year-old patient visited our California Vein Clinic, embarrassed by spider veins that had impacted their self-esteem. We performed radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments, leaving their legs smooth and healthy. The patient now feels more confident, thanks to this transformative treatment.
Before
After
This 84 year-old patient at our New Jersey Vein Treatment Clinic came in with spider veins that had affected their daily routine. We used radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy treatments to relieve discomfort and restore both their leg health and confidence. The patient now enjoys a more active and fulfilling lifestyle, free from pain.
Before
After
At our Long Island Vein Clinic, we treated this 75 year-old patient with spider veins using radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy. These minimally invasive treatments improved both the patient’s appearance and overall well-being, offering transformative results.
Before
After
This 75 year-old patient visited our Long Island Vein Treatment Clinic with painful spider veins. We used radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy, minimally invasive treatments, to eliminate the veins and restore comfort and confidence. The patient experienced life-changing results
Do lifestyle factors cause varicose veins?
Lifestyle factors such as inactivity, limited movement, and prolonged immobility contribute to vein pressure and symptom progression.
Lifestyle changes may reduce symptoms but do not reverse valve damage once it has occurred.
Not sure which of these causes applies to your situation? Talk With a Vein Specialist
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< Spider veins vs Varicose veins
What Are the Symptoms of Varicose Veins? >
About the Medical Team at Vein Treatment Clinic
Clinical leadership at Vein Treatment Clinic is guided by a panel of board-certified vein specialists responsible for establishing and maintaining the clinic’s medical standards. Their approach reflects training and experience developed at nationally recognized academic institutions such as Harvard, Yale, Columbia, and Mount Sinai, with a focus on disciplined evaluation, accuracy, and outcomes-driven care.
All physicians at Vein Treatment Clinic follow a structured, highly standardized clinical model. This includes ongoing training in the latest non-surgical vein treatments, continuous review of emerging research, and strict adherence to proven safety and quality protocols. The approach reflects the values of academic medicine: thoughtful evaluation, disciplined decision-making, and a commitment to outcomes grounded in science.
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At Vein Treatment Clinic, education is considered a core part of treatment. Patients are encouraged to understand their condition, their options, and the reasoning behind each recommendation, so they can move forward with clarity and confidence.
If you’d like clarity about what may be causing your varicose veins and what next steps make sense, a vein evaluation can help guide that decision.
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