Varicose veins are twisted and enlarged veins. Although any superficial vein can suffer from varicose, the most affected veins are the ones located in your legs. Naturally, this occurs due to the constant pressure you impose on your legs every time you walk or stand.

There’s also a small variation of varicose veins called spider veins. Spider veins are usually the condition that evolves into varicose veins. And that is the most significant issue with vein illnesses like varicose veins. 

Risk Factors

How do you know if varicose veins are a sign of poor health? It depends on individual risk factors:

Age: With age, the risk of developing varicose veins increases. Your circulatory system deteriorates over time, causing your blood to flow back into your veins instead of going to your heart. 

Gender: women are more likely to have varicose conditions. Pregnancy and hormonal changes caused by birth control pills are significant contributors to increasing your varicose veins risk. 

Family History: your family’s clinical history is an indicator of the risk you have to inherit a particular disease or condition. It’s no exception with varicose veins. 

Activity Level: when you maintain the same position for a long time, you’re preventing your blood from flowing correctly.

When Should You Contact a Specialist?

For some people, varicose veins might be nothing but a cosmetic concern; for others, it is a severe issue that causes constant discomfort. In some cases, varicose veins can lead to severe symptoms like:

  • Soreness in your legs
  • Muscle cramping in your legs
  • Constant pain after sitting down or standing for long periods
  • Skin discoloration 

If all or most of these symptoms apply to your case, it’s highly recommended that you consider visiting a specialist. Windy City Veins has the most reliable and experienced Illinois vein specialists. Go ahead and schedule your appointment to ensure your health is in the right place.