The spring season hasn’t been in effect for a full month yet. However, many Canadians are already preparing themselves for summertime. Not everyone loves the warm weather though. For individuals who experience the displeasure of having the appearance of varicose veins in their legs, the summer can be a stressful season.
With the warmer weather comes the need to wear shorts, skirts and other skin-revealing clothing in an effort to beat the heat. Sufferers, however, often prefer to keep their legs covered up – even on the hottest of days. But keeping varicose veins out of sight is only part of the summertime problem.
How does heat impact varicose veins?
Although there are generally no symptoms associated with varicose veins, they can be affected by changes in the weather. Issues such as temperature, humidity and air pressure impact the human body in a number of ways. People with varicose veins are no exception.
When the weather is warm, those who suffer from this condition may notice that their legs feel heavy or full. There may also be swelling, especially in the ankles, and some cramping. If people already have these symptoms, they may notice that the symptoms become worse when the weather is warm.
How does the heat cause swelling?
Warm weather tends to dilate veins that are close to the skin. This causes what is called “chronic venous insufficiency”. This condition can worsen the appearance of veins and exacerbate their symptoms. As well, heat causes people to sweat. This results in a loss of salt from the body, disrupting the body’s fluid balance and making it difficult for veins to pull fluid from tissues.
Veins are the most important way that fluid in cells is recycled to the heart. Fluid build-up in the legs and ankles and around varicose veins can worsen symptoms.
How bad can the symptoms of varicose veins get in the summer?
It’s important to remember that varicose veins appear because of a blockage that causes blood to pool. The swelling that occurs can create feelings of soreness and tightness. Of course, the more swelling that occurs, the worse these symptoms can get. Louise Baillie of U.K.-based health brand, A. Vogel explains how warm weather worsens the symptoms.
“Aching legs can occur because the veins are working harder and harder to efficiently pump blood against gravity and back to the heart – a tough job for already-damaged veins,” she describes, “This, along with the build-up of toxins that result from pooling blood, causes legs to ache. When the body warms up and extra blood is sent to these surface veins, inevitably they have to work even harder, which can exacerbate the aching feeling in your legs.”
What is the best way to manage varicose veins in the summer?
Firstly, it’s wise to avoid excessive heat to the legs. Finding ways to keep cool – as you normally would during the summer – will help to keep the symptoms of varicose veins at bay. Secondly, keep active. Don’t sit around for long periods of time so that you can promote blood circulation. As well, be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
At Aurora Skin & Vein, we offer sclerotherapy which is an effective way to eliminate varicose veins. An injection closes the vein(s) in question and redirects blood flow through healthy veins instead, resulting in improved circulation and a more attractive appearance. For more information, please don’t hesitate to call us at 403-358-5818. You may also fill out the form on our Contact Us page!