Varicose veins are generally the result of slow blood flow through the veins of the legs. The veins gradually stretch and become ugly. Fluid leaking through the capillaries results in swelling of the lower legs and ankles and further aggravates the problems with blood flow.

In time, additional veins develop, but these actually aggravate the problem of slow flow.

Lack of exercise and prolonged standing (without support hose or stockings) are the major culprits. Pregnancy is also a risk factor.After varicose veins have been present for awhile, walking and other exercises is not as helpful as it would have been earlier. However, walking and exercising can still be helpful in the prevention of additional veins, but early prevention is the best.

Smoking can contribute in an additional way to development of blood clots. Overweight and obesity are substancial contributing factors in most cases because the extra weight requires a larger blood flow and puts pressure on the soft-walled veins.

The larger blood flow and increased pressure prevent efficient return of the blood toward the heart.

For prevention, lose some weight, walk, exercise, and wear support hose or stockings.