Only old people get varicose veins. Wrong! Sure, you aren’t totally wrong when you say the elderly get varicose veins, but this venous insufficiency can affect people of all ages. Yes, even teenagers and children can develop these type of veins.
Genetics can play a huge role in the development of venous insufficiencies, which means if it’s in your family’s history then you can potentially develop varicose veins at any age. Many kids these days are also overweight or obese, which can lead to varicose veins. The extra weight puts pressure on the veins causing them to expand and bulge. Also, when kids are overweight, there is a good chance they are not exercising. Lack of movement can lead to the development of varicose veins as well, because there is poor circulation in the body.
However, teens and kids who push themselves hard in sports or playing physically, can develop varicose veins from trauma due to injuries. Teens and children who play volleyball, run track or cross country, play soccer or basketball, or who are gymnasts and cheerleaders are at a higher risk for developing a venous insufficiency. These sports/activities require the player to be on their feet for a long period of time, and pressure on the legs to pump efficiently can cause veins to enlarge.
If your child or teen complains about unusually achy, tired, or heavy legs, examine their legs. Do you see any veins protruding? Any discoloration? If you do or if you’re unsure, you may want to have a vein specialist examine your child’s legs to rule out any vein disorder, especially if vein issues run in your family.
Have Your Veins Checked by a Tampa Vein Specialist
If you have a teen or child with varicose veins or painful legs, talk to a vein specialist like Dr. Peter Mikhail. Dr. Mikhail will examine your child’s legs. He treats varicose veins, spider veins, and other venous inefficiencies in the cities of Tampa, Clearwater, and New Port Richey, Florida. To book a consult, click our Tampa vein treatment page or call 727-312-4844.
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