One of the biggest factors is weight, in a combination with other criteria. For this reason, those who are overweight, obese or put on a significant amount of weight in a short period of time will find that they are more prone to varicose veins. Individuals who are overweight will also find that by losing weight they reduce their risk and decrease the progression of the disease they may already have. Women who are pregnant may find that they are at an increased risk for developing varicose veins but that these veins may resolve after the baby has been born.
There are several ways of reducing the risk of developing varicose veins, including weight loss. Individuals who find that they sit or stand for several hours during the day also increase their risk of developing varicose veins because of the lack of muscle contraction in the lower extremities which drives the venous blood back to the heart. If employment entails long periods of time sitting or standing, it is important to reduce risk by moving around several times an hour. People who are in a position of traveling in planes or cars for long periods of time will find that contracting and relaxing their calf muscles, ankles and feet every 10 minutes will also help to reduce their risk.