Why Varicose Veins are Worse in Summer
Because heat dilates the veins, many vein issues worsen during the summertime. As the veins expand with higher temperatures, leaky veins can get even worse, leading to more pooling of blood in your legs and problems associated with it such as pain, tiredness, cramps, swelling, and clots. There is an increased chance of seeing new spider veins, pain, and worse symptoms. Here are tips to help you enjoy the warm season:
Five Tips To Fight Back
- 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 is one of the best ways to 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 circulation overall. Also, cooling exercises like swimming and brisk evening walks are best because the coolness helps keep the blood vessels from dilating. - Stay Hydrated
Keeping your body properly hydrated will help it effectively circulate blood, heal injuries faster, and allow for healthier skin. Though it seems like a no-brainer, patients with vein problems should pay especially close attention to their hydration levels during the summer when the heat can easily dry anyone out. If you plan on being out of the AC, plan to also bring a water bottle along. Avoid caffeine. - Avoid Heels
We recommend ats and sandals rather than high heels that keep your calf muscles from effectively pumping blood out of the leg. Wearing lower heels makes your calves work a little harder, keeping blood pumping out of your legs and back to your heart where it belongs. - Wear Compression Stockings
They may not be at the top of anyone’s list of hot summer fashions, but compression stockings put pressure on your legs that helps to 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 may prevent blood from pooling in your legs, which can cause or worsen vein problems.
Varicose and spider veins have ruined too many summers. To keep them from ruining this one, schedule a free consultation and complimentary vein screening at Alsara Vein Clinic. Current treatments allow us to permanently treat affected veins with no downtime and you can be rid of your compression stockings within days of treatments. Many insurers including Medicare offer coverage. Click here to see Insurance We Typically Accept.