To put it bluntly, varicose veins are a pain – literally. Not only are they unsightly, but they can bring about mental and physical pain and problems (including serious medical complications). During the summer months, the rising temperatures have people wearing shorts, dresses, skirts, and bathing suits, which means legs are exposed. Many people are uncomfortable exposing their vein-covered legs, and we don’t blame them. Although it’s best to seek treatment for varicose veins and other vein disorders, we at West Florida Vein Center wanted to share a few tips with you to manage your varicose veins during these hot, summer months.
Use Self Tanner – By using a self-tanner, you are darkening your skin, making varicose veins less visible. The cream will hide the blueish-purpleish colors of the varicose veins.
Stay Hydrated – Staying hydrated will keep you cool and improve the circulation in your veins. Hydration also helps prevent swelling, which can cause the varicose veins to become painful.
Exercise and Be Active – Exercise improves circulation in the body; walking and swimming really help improve circulation in the legs. While an increased blood flow, pressure will be released from the veins, hopefully making them less painful and less visible.
Elevate Legs and Feet – With elevation, the veins aren’t feeling the effects of gravity as much, and will help prevent blood pooling in the legs. With less blood pooling, pressure will be taken off the veins and there will be less pain and swelling in the area.
Watch the Salt – Excess sodium in the body creates bloating and swelling. By watching your salt intake, you can help reduce your chances of swelling occurring in the area in and around your varicose veins.
Wear Compression Stockings – Although it’s summer, you can still find a way to wear these stockings and make them fashionable, or hide them under a long dress or pants. Many women wear long dresses in the summer, which can easily hide these stockings. During the evenings, many people still opt for pants and can easily hide these under them. For those that want to wear shorts, dresses, or skirts, there are compression stockings and socks available in many colors so they will look more fashionable and not like a medical garment. Compression stockings can help relieve symptoms of varicose veins and improve circulation.
All of the above suggestions will help reduce the appearance and pain of varicose veins; however, it will not make them disappear! In order to truly get your legs summer ready, talking to a vein specialist about a vein treatment is the best option. Not only with a treatment make your legs look better again, it will rid you of pain and future serious health problems like blood clots and pulmonary embolisms. Dr. Zuzga of West Florida Vein Center offers multiple treatments to rid people of their varicose veins. To schedule an appointment with the doctor, call 727-712-3233 or click here.
