The summer heat continues!
Barbecue parties here and there, outdoor activities – what’s not to love about summer and warm weather? Apparently, for people affected by varicose veins, summertime can sometimes cause a feeling of distress.
Why summer is not a great time for those with varicose veins
The following are some of the reasons why summer may trigger the development or exacerbate the symptoms of existing varicose veins:
- Sun’s rays can weaken the skin’s upper layers
Aside from weakening the upper layers of the skin, the harsh rays of the sun can also sap its moisture and reduce its elasticity. This reduction in elasticity diminishes the veins below the skin to flex. When this happens, blood circulation is affected, causing the blood to pool.
- The rising temperature causes the veins to dilate
When our bodies heat up, the veins dilate to enable more blood flow. This is the body’s way of cooling itself. While it’s a good body response to heat, this may not be good news for those with vein issues.
If you have spider or varicose veins, this is the reason why your veins’ swelling may worsen during this time of the year.
Don’t let the heat keep you from enjoying this season. There are ways on how you can still enjoy summer even with spider or varicose veins:
- Use sunscreen
Later on sunscreen with at least a sun protection factor of 30. Make sure to cover areas with thinner skin.
- Seek shade or use protective clothing if you’re planning to stay out for long
- Keep up with your regular exercise
Regular physical activity can help in circulating the blood flow well. One tip: avoid the peak hours for sun and heat when you exercise.
- Stay hydrated
Drink lots of water. Staying hydrated can ease some of the varicose vein symptoms (dehydration causes muscle cramping and the legs to swell).
If your varicose veins are bothering you and keeping you from enjoying summer, Premier Vein Clinic in Knoxville has various treatment options for spider and varicose veins. To request an appointment, call us at (865) 588-8229 or request an appointment online. https://www.premierveinclinics.com/request-an-appointment/
References:
https://www.jeffersonsurgical.com/blog/item/282-does-summer-heat-make-varicose-veins-worse.html
http://www.stjohnsvein.com/why-varicose-veins-are-worse-in-the-summer-especially-for-women/