Can Varicose Veins be Inherited?

By: Dr. J. Keith Thompson

7/25/2025

Varicose veins are a common concern for many, especially when those bulging, enlarged veins begin to appear on the legs. Family history plays a significant role in the development of varicose veins, making inheritance an important factor to consider. At Vein Institute in Hattiesburg, D'Iberville, and Meridian, Dr. J. Keith Thompson, a trusted vein specialist, helps patients understand the causes of varicose veins and provides effective varicose vein treatments to relieve symptoms and improve leg health. 

What causes varicose veins besides genetics? 

While genetics is a strong factor, several other causes contribute to varicose veins. These include prolonged standing, pregnancy, obesity, and aging. These factors can weaken or damage the valves inside leg veins, causing blood to pool and veins to enlarge and twist. This leads to visible varicose veins and symptoms, like swelling in the legs, aching, and heaviness. Understanding these causes alongside your family history gives a clearer picture of your risk and the ideal treatment options. 

Are varicose veins hereditary? 

If your parents or close relatives have varicose veins, you're more likely to develop them too. This hereditary tendency is linked to how your vein valves function and the strength of your vein walls. People with a family history should be especially mindful of early signs like leg discomfort or visible enlarged veins and should seek evaluation. Early intervention with treatments such as laser treatment for varicose veins can prevent worsening and provide relief. 

Can varicose veins go away on their own, or do they require treatment? 

Unfortunately, varicose veins usually don't disappear without help. While lifestyle changes like exercise, elevating legs, and wearing compression stockings can ease symptoms, they don't get rid of the damaged veins. That's where professional varicose vein removal treatments come in. At Vein Institute in Hattiesburg, D'Iberville, and Meridian, Dr. Thompson offers minimally invasive options that effectively close off or remove problem veins, improving leg appearance and comfort without surgery. 

What are the treatment options available at Vein Institute in Hattiesburg, D'Iberville, and Meridian? 

Dr. Thompson and our experienced team provide a range of modern treatments tailored to each patient's needs. These include:  

These techniques target the root cause by closing or removing faulty veins, helping restore healthy circulation and reducing symptoms like swelling, leg fatigue, and visible veins. 

Take control of your vein health with varicose vein treatments 

If varicose veins run in your family or you're noticing symptoms yourself, Dr. J. Keith Thompson, vein specialist at Vein Institute in Hattiesburg, D'Iberville, and Meridian, is here to help. Offering advanced varicose vein treatments combined with personalized care, Dr. Thompson ensures you don't have to endure discomfort or embarrassment from enlarged leg veins. Schedule your consultation today to explore effective, lasting solutions that can restore both comfort and confidence in your leg health.