Leg pain, burning, swelling... 10 ways to cope with varicose veins in summer

Pain or a burning sensation in the legs, fatigue that increases especially at the end of the day, night cramps, swelling usually in the ankles, itching over varicose veins… These complaints constitute the typical symptoms of varicose vein disease, which is seen in 1 out of every 5 people in our country and can reach a severity that lowers the quality of life. Varicose vein disease is defined as a chronic vascular problem that occurs when veins expand and become twisted, and it can progress over time. The complaints caused by varicose veins, which are most commonly seen in the legs, increase during the summer months. 

Acıbadem Bakırköy Hospital Cardiovascular Surgery Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Arnaz points out that hot weather causes veins to expand and that this situation triggers complaints by increasing the pressure inside the vessels, stating, "In addition, increased sweating and fluid loss in the summer months lead to the thickening of the blood, making blood circulation difficult. Standing for long periods, long walks especially during the holiday season, and long periods of standing still also increase the load on the legs. Airplane and long vehicle journeys also slow down blood circulation and increase the risk of edema. All of these increase the problems caused by varicose veins in the summer months," he says. 

COMPLAINTS CAN BE BROUGHT UNDER CONTROL! 

Arnaz states that compression stockings are an important tool that helps treatment by balancing the pressure on the veins and facilitating the return of blood to the heart, adding, "Wearing stockings in hot weather during the summer months can be uncomfortable for most patients. Therefore, if the use of stockings is not possible, it is possible to control the complaints with lifestyle measures that support circulation.

However, these suggestions do not exactly replace stockings; a physician's evaluation must be made in cases where problems increase. Because, although varicose veins are perceived only as a visible aesthetic problem, they occur due to venous insufficiency. Therefore, if treatment is delayed, it can lead to infections in the veins and even conditions that carry vital risks due to the formation of clots in the lungs," he says. 

Avoid sun rays

Sunbathing increases the pooling of blood by expanding the veins, especially in the legs exposed to direct sunlight. For this reason, it is necessary to protect yourself from sun rays, especially during noon hours. 

Apply cold water to your legs

Applying cold water to the legs in the morning and evening causes the veins to constrict and reduces complaints.

Rest by elevating your legs

Keeping your legs above heart level for 15-20 minutes a few times a day supports venous circulation.

Use compression stockings

Using compression stockings upon a doctor's recommendation during daily activities or while traveling reduces complaints. 

Do not remain inactive, take short walks

Instead of sitting or standing for long periods, taking short walks at regular intervals activates the muscle pump of the legs.

Try to stay in cool environments

Resting in air-conditioned areas or choosing cooler hours when going out makes days without stockings more comfortable.

Swim plenty 

Regular swimming both supports blood circulation and provides a natural pressure effect on blood circulation by keeping the legs cool.

Drink at least 2 liters of water a day

Water consumption is of critical importance for vascular health as it maintains the fluidity of the blood. Therefore, it is necessary to make it a habit to drink at least 2 liters of water every day.  

Prefer loose clothing

Tight clothing, especially those that put pressure on the abdominal area, can prevent blood circulation returning from the legs to the heart, leading to more blood pooling in the leg veins. For this reason, it is important to prefer loose clothing.  

Use these with a doctor's recommendation

Some vein-strengthening creams and sprays that can be used with a doctor's recommendation can provide relief, even if temporary.