Both my mother and father have varicose veins. Am I doomed?
Venous reflux disease is definitely hereditary; it is an autosomal dominant trait. With one parent having venous reflux disease, there is a 50 percent chance for developing varicose veins. With both parents having the disease, the chance for developing varicose veins is even greater. Genetics are the greatest factor contributing to venous reflux disease but not the only factor. Standing for prolonged periods on hard surfaces can also lead to the development of varicose veins.