Varicose Veins can feel worse in Summer - 5 Tips to fight back
Because heat dilates the veins, many vein issues worsen during the summertime. With higher temperatures, veins expand leading to more pooling of blood in the legs and problems associated with it such as leg pain, tiredness, leg cramps, swelling (edema) and blood clots. There is also an increased chance of seeing new spider veins.
Here are some tips to help you enjoy the warm season.
- Stay Cool
Make sure you wear clothes that won't trap heat. Always use sunblock (SPF 30 or above) not just on your legs, but also on your face and nose, where thinner skin is more prone to developing spider veins. - Take a Dive
In addition to offering great respite from the summer heat, swimming can also promote normal circulation in your legs. Swimming is a low-impact exercise that saves your joints from the pounding, yet increases your heart rate and improves overall circulation. Also, cooling exercises like swimming, surfing, and brisk evening walks help keep the blood vessels from dilating. 
Stay Hydrated
Keeping your body properly hydrated will help effectively circulate blood, heal injuries faster, and allow for healthier skin. While the summer heat can easily dry anyone out, patients with vein problems should pay closer attention to their hydration during this time. If you plan on being out of the AC, plan to also bring a water bottle along and avoid caffeine as much as possible.- Avoid Heels
We recommend flats and sandals rather than high heels to help your calf muscles pump blood up from the leg to the heart. Wearing lower heels makes your calves work a little harder ensuring the correct flow of blood. - Wear Compression Stockings
They may not be at the top of anyone’s list for hot summer fashions, but compression stockings put pressure on your legs that helps move blood up and away from your lower legs. Though you may not want to wear them outside during July and August for fear of overheating, wearing them regularly will prevent blood from pooling in your legs, which can cause or worsen vein problems.
Varicose veins and spider veins have ruined too many summers. To keep them from ruining this one, schedule an appointment with a Vein Specialist. Current treatments allow us to permanently treat affected veins with no downtime. Treatment of symptomatic varicose veins is covered by almost all insurances including Medicare and Medicaid.