Dealing with Varicose Veins this Summer
By Dr. Jeffrey Martinez, Vascular Surgeon, Peripheral Vascular Associates (PVA)
In Texas, our summers are long and hot and this weather can be daunting for people with bulging varicose veins. For some, varicose veins are only an embarrassment but for many they are painful. Here are a few things you can do to relieve symptoms and prevent varicose veins from worsening.
- Stay cool – Heat causes vein dilation and dehydration causes vein constriction. Wearing lose, flowing, breathable clothing can help keep you cool.
- Stay active – Regular, low-impact exercises like swimming and walking can improve blood flow throughout your veins. Increased circulation will relieve pressure on the veins in your legs and decrease the appearance of varicose veins.
- Wear support socks – Compression stockings and socks are now made in a variety of skin tones and fashionable colors. These can help increase circulation and reduce discomfort.
- Elevate your legs – Lessen the negative effects of gravity on varicose veins by elevating your legs. This will keep blood from pooling in your veins.
Other tips for reducing vein problems include cutting down on salt consumption and losing any excess weight that might be adding too much pressure to your legs.
As a vein specialist, I can help reduce the pain and discomfort of varicose veins and eliminate the need to hide your legs this summer and future summer’s to come.
For more information or to set up an appointment call (210) 237-4444 or visit pvasatxstaging.wpengine.com.
Source: Dr. Jeffrey Martinez, Vascular Surgeon
Spanish