Patients often come to the office complaining of cold feet as a result of varicose vein disease. Unfortunately, varicose vein disease not only doesn’t present with cold feet, but often can represent a more serious diagnosis.
The circulatory, or vascular system, consists of arteries and veins. Arteries are thick, muscular vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart throughout the body. Veins are low pressure, capacity vessels that return the oxygen-depleted blood back to the lungs.
Blood is replenished with oxygen in the lungs. It is then sent to the heart to resend the oxygen-rich blood throughout the body by way of the arteries. This arterial to venous loop continues throughout a person’s life.
The question then remains as to why patients have cold feet if cold feet are not a symptom of varicose vein disease?
Nothing in the human body can be labeled as “simple”, but veins are simple when compared to their more sophisticated cousin, the artery.
Generally speaking, arteries deliver blood at a temperature of 98.6°F to the body. Blood cooler than this temperature is interpreted as cooler, or cold, by most people.
Basically, any factor that decreases the delivery of blood can result in cold feet. As the arteries deliver the blood to the feet, we must consider factors that slow the flow of blood to the feet.
Complicating this further, the feet are the “end of the line” for arterial circulation. That means the blood that flows to the feet and toes travels further from the heart than to any other part of the body.
Arteries are plagued by stenosis, or a narrowing of their diameter by atherosclerotic plaques. Stenosis occurs as a result of many insults with the primary culprits being hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and genetics.
In addition, small arteries, called arterioles, regulate the pressure of the blood that reaches all parts of the body.
Arterioles are found between the arteries and capillaries. Factors that cause the arterioles to constrict will decrease blood flow, and subsequent warmth, to the feet and toes.
Many factors contribute to decreased circulation to the feet and toes. These include medications and caffeine intake from coffee, tea, and chocolate. Hypothyroidism and other diseases such as lupus and Raynaud’s may also be a factor.
Most patients believe that their cold feet are a symptom of varicose vein disease. In reality, the arteries and arterioles are the culprit.
While the symptoms may often be managed by wearing warm socks, exercising, and avoiding caffeine or tobacco, persistent symptoms should always be evaluated by a patient’s primary care doctor.
There’s an old saying, “You are what you eat.” This is particularly true for vein health. If you have been wondering about diet and varicose veins, you’ll be interested to learn what’s the connection.
While a great diet can’t remove varicose veins, it can lessen symptoms and support better vein health in the future. It can even slow the development of varicose veins.
Diet Affects Varicose Vein Health
It may not surprise you to learn there’s a connection between diet and varicose vein health. But did you know, this connection is quite strong?
The healthier your diet choices are, the healthier your veins will be.
And, adjusting your diet for greater vein health will also have a positive effect on your heart health, blood pressure, and more!
A healthful vein-supporting diet will:
Improve blood circulation
Support blood vessels
Keep vein pressure to a healthy minimum
If you already have varicose veins, a good diet can lessen the severity of symptoms and possibly keep more varicose veins from developing.
How to Adjust Your Diet for Varicose Vein Health
What to Avoid
You should avoid foods that are highly processed and contain lots of salt.
Salty foods and many highly processed foods cause the body to increase its volume of fluids. This places more pressure on varicose veins and impedes blood circulation.
Not getting enough fiber in your diet, causes constipation in your digestive system—a common contributor to the development of varicose veins.
One key to having healthy veins is to make sure your diet supports good blood circulation.
Eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and nutrients goes a long way to support vein health.
In dealing with diet and varicose veins, the good news is that vein-friendly foods are common and easy to find in your local grocery store.
Fruits and Vegetables
Most fruits and vegetables are great for your body and support good vein health.
Many fruits are chock full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. They also contain many nutrients that support vein health as well and keep blood vessels from leaking.
Citrus fruits, including oranges and lemons, are bursting with vitamin C and help reduce swelling in varicose veins. Reduced swelling means much less pain in your legs after a long day of standing or sitting in one place.
Fruits also are high in fiber and reduce constipation.
Some fruits and vegetables to include in your diet for improved vein health are:
Avocados
Beets
Grapes
Kale
Berries
Black Olives
Ginger
Fiber
Foods with fiber help prevent constipation. Constipation promotes varicose vein development since it increases pressure on veins.
Fiber-rich foods also help keep cholesterol levels low and blood pressure at a healthy level.
Onions
Chopping onions may make your eyes tear, but they contain many nutrients that will make your body happy.
Onions contain Vitamin B6, zinc, fiber, and many nutrients that help your blood circulation.
Enjoy them in green salads and other healthful dishes.
Copper
Copper is an essential nutrient that promotes circulation and supports the body’s immune system.
If you don’t get enough copper, veins become less elastic. This makes the veins more likely to swell and gradually weaken.
There are many significant dietary sources of copper, including:
Beef liver
Almonds
Asparagus
Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids are anti-inflammatories that do great things for your body and veins. They help treat osteoarthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Along with vein health, they also support blood circulation and heart health.
They will not only reduce vein swelling but help to strengthen vein walls.
Rutin is a naturally occurring bioflavonoid that protects blood vessels and has anti-inflammatory properties to protect against blood clots.
It’s found in apples and asparagus and many other fruits and vegetables.
Good hydration will help keep your circulatory system runny smoothly. It helps keep blood volume constant, flushes out waste from the system, and makes varicose veins feel better.
Water and fiber together work to keep bloating to a minimum and prevent constipation.
Physical Activity
A good tip for improved circulatory health and healthy veins is to have daily physical activity. This keeps the blood in your veins moving and helps keep veins healthy.
Of course, you never want to overdo it. Your doctor can recommend a good exercise program for you. Even walking every day will provide great benefits for your veins.
Do You Have Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are those thick raised veins that people often see on their legs and feet. They can cause many physical symptoms, including pain, itchiness, and swelling.
If you have varicose veins, a screening can tell you how these veins are affecting your overall health. You can also learn about pain-free, proven treatments to eliminate your varicose veins.
We all want to take good care of our health. But no one wants to visit a doctor unnecessarily. However, you may wonder with leg pain—when should I see a doctor?
Here are helpful facts about when to contact a doctor about your leg pain.
Legs Are Complex
Legs comprise many biological structures, including veins, bones, tendons, cartilage, and nerves.
Vascular problems affect the blood vessels, including arteries and veins. Endovascular and vascular surgeons specialize in vascular problems in the body, excluding the brain and heart.
Musculoskeletal problems involve bones, ligaments, joints, and tendons. An orthopedic surgeon or orthopedist generally treats them.
Neurological problems involve nerves and the nervous system. Neurologists specialize in these medical issues.
Of course, the doctor or specialist to treat your leg pain depends on your specific leg problem.
If You don’t Know the Cause of Your Leg Pain – Where to Start
If you don’t know the cause of your leg pain, start by visiting a general practitioner. They will direct you to the best specialist for treatment if necessary.
At times, the medical problem isn’t in your leg at all—even if the pain is. Sometimes a person feels leg pain when the pain source is in another part of their body.
Sciatica pain is a good example of this; leg pain originates from a nerve pathway that starts in the patient’s spine.
Sciatica is often treated by exercise but see your general practitioner or a neurologist.
Sometimes, the cause of leg pain is obvious, such as with varicose veins. You can see the twisted veins right there on your leg. And you can feel the discomfort or pain.
If this is the case, you can start by immediately contacting an endovascular surgeon to assess and treat the problem.
So, let’s first look at the onset of the pain to determine what action you should take.
Acute or Chronic Leg Pain
How a pain starts, and the duration of the pain tells you something about the cause of your leg pain and whether you should contact a doctor.
Acute pain is sudden, sharp, and intense and lasts awhile. It warns of an immediate problem in the body and calls for immediate attention.
Chronic pain may start off more slowly and gently but can worsen and become a daily irritant. If you don’t know the cause of your chronic pain, and it has lasted for several days, it’s time to see a doctor.
But unless you’re in great discomfort, it’s probably fine to just schedule an appointment.
When To See a Doctor Immediately
If There’s Acute Leg Pain from an Injury
If you have pain in your leg caused by a deep cut, or an injury that leaves an exposed tendon or bone, immediately get to an emergency room or urgent care.
Not only are you prone to developing a serious infection, but you need emergency care to ensure your leg heals properly.
X-Rays or other tests may help your doctor make a complete diagnosis and then treat the leg properly so it can heal completely.
If You Have Any of the Following Unexplained Leg Pain Symptoms
You may feel it’s safe to ignore these symptoms for a few days, but it’s not.
Get immediate medical care if you have:
Swollen legs accompanied by breathing problems
Sudden inability to stand or put pressure on leg
Sudden severe leg pain
Calf pain after sitting for a long time—often after a long car trip or plane ride
If You Suspect Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
The most common reason people experience calf pain is from a muscle injury. However, calf pain can be a sign of DVT—especially if it occurs shortly after a lengthy plane or car trip.
A deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in a leg. The blood clot can travel and lodge in the lungs, making this a potentially life-threatening situation.
You want this problem treated as soon as possible. The usual treatment is medication and wearing compression stockings.
Pain, cramping, soreness, or tenderness in the calf muscles are the most common DVT symptoms. You probably won’t feel a sharp or stabbing pain. You may think you have a muscle cramp but are actually feeling the formation of the deep vein clot.
Other DVT symptoms include swelling, redness, or discolored skin in the affected leg. The leg may also feel warm to the touch.
If you experience any of these symptoms shortly after your plane ride, contact your doctor. If you can’t reach your doctor, seek emergency care immediately.
Time to See a Doctor – But It’s Not an Emergency
Chronic unexplained leg pain is also a reason to see a doctor.
Call for an appointment if your leg pain is:
Uncomfortable
Persistent
Getting worse
Not going away after a few days
Sometimes All Your Leg Needs is Rest and TLC
Many of us experience leg pain from time to time. This includes muscle soreness from overuse of your legs or the occasional leg cramp.
Muscle cramps can be extremely painful.
They can be caused by:
overuse of muscles in hot weather
certain medications
diet
dehydration.
Gentle massaging and stretching can help leg cramps, as will a heating pad.
If you’ve been using your legs a lot, it’s common to have sore leg muscles and minor swelling.
For this, try to stay off your legs. It will help to apply ice to the swollen or painful area for 20 minutes to reduce inflammation, three times a day.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help you feel better too.
Varicose Veins Are a Common and Treatable Cause of Leg Pain
Varicose veins are a leg condition that, according to the Society for Vascular Surgery, affects 35% of adults in the US. They are most common in adults over 50. And genetics can play a role too.
Varicose veins are twisted, blue/purple veins under your skin. They are most common on the legs, ankles, and feet.
Varicose veins aren’t always a health risk, but they can become quite painful and they’re not pretty to look at.
What we eat affects our skin’s appearance as much as the products we use regularly. Therefore, it’s important to make sure that you eat healthy foods that contain the following vitamins for healthy skin.
Vitamin D
Most people think that you can only get vitamin D through sunlight. This is not true. There are plenty of other valuable sources. But, getting vitamin D from sunlight may be the easiest way since only 10 minutes of sun exposure a few times a week will produce all your body needs.
That said, it’s important that you protect your skin from harmful UV radiation even in the winter months. As an alternative, you can also increase your vitamin D intake by eating fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and cod. Or, choose fortified foods like breakfast cereals and orange juice. Here are a few more examples of foods rich in Vitamin D:
White beans
Soybeans
Egg yolks
Cheese
Biotin
Biotin is a B7 vitamin that plays an important role in the health of your skin and hair. It also helps to convert certain nutrients into energy. Biotin aids in metabolizing fat, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin.
We recommend that you include meaty foods that are rich in biotin, such as fish, pork, and beef. Other examples include:
Seeds
Nuts
Raspberries
Avocados
Bananas
Vitamin C
Vitamin C has important antioxidant properties and supports collagen production. As one of the most important vitamins for healthy skin, you’ll find it included in many anti-aging skin care products. To achieve the maximum benefits from vitamin C, it’s best to utilize a combination of skin care products rich in this powerful vitamin and to incorporate it into your diet.
We recommend that you include foods that are naturally high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and leafy greens. Some of the best options are:
Spinach
Broccoli
Pineapples
Strawberries
Brussel sprouts
Tomatoes
Vitamin B3
A strong form of Vitamin B3 is Niacinamide, which is an essential nutrient for skin health. Topical niacinamide is commonly used to treat acne conditions and eczema. Niacinamide also helps boost your skin’s production of keratin, a protein that keeps your skin firm and plump.
Ideal for oily skin types, this powerful nutrient regulates oil production while also minimizing the appearance of pores. There are many topical niacinamide products available, however certain foods have a high amount of Vitamin B3 as well:
Spirulina
Coffee
Rice
Peanuts
Chia
Eggs
Beans
Milk
Vitamin E
The purpose of vitamin E in skin health is to protect it against UV damage and maintaining proper levels of moisture. Ideally, your body will produce sufficient amounts of this antioxidant through sebum, an oily secretion from your glands.
But, when your skin becomes dry, the addition of vitamin E can help restore its moisture. Vitamin E can be applied topically, taken as a supplement or consumed in the form of nuts and seeds. Some of our favorite foods with vitamin E are:
Sunflower seeds
Peanuts
Almonds
Hazelnuts
Corn
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are plant compounds that are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Dark chocolate is loaded with these powerful compounds, which makes it a popular skin mask if you wish to apply it instead of consuming it.
The best way to boost your diet with flavonoids is through a variety of fruits and vegetables. Many plant-based foods contain flavonoids such as:
Dark chocolate
Green tea
Red wine
Berries
Vitamin K
Vitamin K helps your body heal wounds and bruises and aids in your body’s natural process of blood clotting. Vitamin K is especially important for anyone who has spider veins or dark spots, as its ability to promote healthy blood circulation reduces the appearance of these symptoms.
Leafy and green vegetables are the best source of vitamin K, such as kale, spinach, and lettuce. Other options include:
Edamame
Asparagus
Kiwi
Avocados
Vitamin K2
With its powerful amount of collagen, Vitamin K2 is known to smooth irritated skin as well as plump the skin to appear fuller. Vitamin K is also commonly used to combat acne scars, rosacea, and other skin conditions.
While Vitamin K1 is found in leafy greens and vegetables, Vitamin K2 is mostly found in meats and dairy.
Turkey
Beef liver
Pickles
Kimchi
Sauerkraut
Coenzyme CoQ10
A naturally produced bodily enzyme, Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant. CoQ10 is actually found in every cell of the human body. It’s extremely crucial for the production of new cells, making it a great addition to any anti-aging skincare routine.
Because it boosts the production of new cells, CoQ10 is often used to treat acne scars and can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. CoQ10 can be found in meat, various nuts, beans, and vegetables such as:
Peanuts
Soybeans
Spinach
Cauliflower
Broccoli
Oranges
Pork
Beef
Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)
ALA is a compound that comes straight from our mitochondria, otherwise known as the “powerhouse of the cell”. Our bodies naturally produce ALA, however, it’s often in small amounts.
Therefore, getting an extra boost in your diet is necessary for your skin. ALA is often used to combat dark spots, reverse sun damage, and even protect our skin from harmful pollutants.
ALA also has strong antioxidant properties, making it a great anti-aging aid. ALA can be naturally found in red meat and many vegetables such as:
Yams
Potatoes
Beets
Tomatoes
Red meat
Brussel sprouts
Spotlight: Neocutis and its Restorative Benefits
At the New Jersey Vein and Vascular Center, we are proud to offer Neocutis products for our clients based on their skincare needs. These products are dispensed through select physicians, so you know that you are getting the highest quality of skincare that science has to offer.
These topical treatments work best to combat:
Signs of aging
Skin discoloration
Oxidative stress (the body’s ability to detoxify from free radicals)
Skin redness and dryness
They also include many of the beneficial vitamins we mentioned earlier. We want all our customers to look and feel their best, which is why we offer these highly regarded products.
Conclusion
Vitamins from foods and supplements support the health and appearance of your skin from the inside out. The right skin care routine with nutrient rich products will help to create a beautiful look from the outside in. Utilize a combination of both the important vitamins for healthy skin and good skincare products to achieve the best results.
Contact us today to learn more about enhancing the look of your skin with the right vitamins and our Neocutis products.
This blog has been updated and republished in November 2021.
Ah, Autumn. Also known as Pumpkin Spice season. Every year around this time, pumpkin-flavored everything makes its annual appearance. Pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin pie, pumpkin soup, even pumpkin chili hits the shelves of stores and restaurants.
While you are likely familiar with all of the ways to eat this versatile veggie, did you know pumpkin also greatly benefits the skin?
It Starts with Super Ingredients
From the seeds to the flesh, pumpkins are loaded with nutrients that are helpful for the skin. Since pumpkin has a small molecular structure, it can penetrate deep into the skin. These nutrients do everything from hydrating to repairing damage from the inside out. Some of the beneficial enzymes and vitamins in pumpkin include:
Alpha hydroxy acids
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Beta-carotene
Magnesium
Zinc
Vitamin E
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Awesome Anti-Aging Benefits
Pumpkins contain enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids that break down dead skin cells. By removing dead skin cells, normal cell regeneration speeds up. This has a smoothing and brightening effect, resulting in glowing skin.
Pumpkin enzymes are plentiful in antioxidant-rich vitamins A and C. These amazing ingredients refine and soothe the skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
A derivative of vitamin A, beta-carotene, boosts collagen production to help minimize wrinkles. Beta-carotene also helps to reverse UV damage and improve uneven skin pigmentation. So, if you have any dark spots or freckles, pumpkin is the superfood for you.
Because of its high content of magnesium, zinc, and antioxidants, the pumpkin seed oil is especially useful in preventing the signs of aging. It promotes moisture retention and improves the skin’s elasticity.
Fights Free Radicals
Free radicals are skin-damaging molecules in our environment: light, smog, cigarette smoke, and fried foods – just to name a few. They speed up the aging process and may even be linked to cancer.
The vitamin C and beta-carotene in pumpkin works to combat free radicals. Both nutrients reverse UV damage and counteract free radical effects on the skin.
Using pumpkin to fight free radicals is easy. Make a simple pumpkin puree mask by spreading it onto your skin and allowing it to sit for 30 minutes.
Solves Skin Problems
Pumpkins have powerful acne-fighting and oil regulating properties. Thanks to a potent combination of zinc, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, you can ditch the zits.
Along with potassium and magnesium, zinc regulates oil production in the skin. This removes those obnoxious, overly oily and dry areas. Zinc also works in tandem with vitamin E to fight acne breakouts and improve skin tone. At the same time, anti-inflammatory vitamin A minimizes acne scarring.
Zinc, vitamin E, and omega 3- and 6- fatty acids are especially concentrated in pumpkin seeds. Simply eating these seeds is a great way to reap their many benefits. Roast pumpkin seeds at home (it’s super easy!) and then enjoy them on their own or sprinkled into yogurt or trail mix.
Hair Regrowth
Pumpkin can also help with hair loss or thinning. It is full of minerals like potassium and zinc which work to keep hair healthy and promote re-growth.
Pumpkin is also a good source of folate, a B vitamin that helps improve blood circulation which stimulates hair growth.
Fight Dry Skin
Pumpkin has the power to penetrate deep into skin to provide many benefits. It’s full of the antioxidants, Vitamin A and Vitamin C, that both help to soften and soothe dry skin. Pumpkin also boosts collagen production which keeps skin from looking cracked and scaly.
If you want to protect your skin from becoming dry, pumpkin will do the trick. It’s are rich in essential fatty acids and Vitamin E that nourish the skin and fight free radicals.
1/2 c. Warm Whole Milk (105ºF) 1/4 c. Honey, Divided 2 1/4 tsp. Active Dry Yeast 1/4 c. Salted Butter, Melted 1 can (15 Oz. Size) Canned Pumpkin (Not Pumpkin Pie Filling Or Mix) 1 Large Egg 1 1/2 tsp. Salt 5 c. All-purpose Flour, Or More As Needed
Directions
Place warm milk and 1 teaspoon of the honey in a small bowl. Sprinkle yeast on top. Allow to activate for 5 minutes.
Place milk mixture and remaining ingredients in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms. Switch to the dough hook. Knead on medium-low speed for 15 minutes. You can add more flour if dough is extremely wet, but dough should be quite sticky and won’t clean the sides of the bowl completely.
Scrape dough into a large, generously greased bowl. Cover and allow to rise until doubled, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Scoop dough out onto a piece of parchment paper or a greased work surface. Divide dough into 15 to 24 pieces, depending on how large of rolls you prefer. Using buttered hands, shape the pieces into balls by first pinching the edges into the center, then rolling the ball on your work surface to create surface tension. Place in a greased 13×9-inch pan or 10- to 12-inch cast iron skillet.
Cover with a tea towel and allow to rise until the rolls fill the pan, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Half an hour before the rolls are done proofing, preheat oven to 375° F. Bake risen rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and an instant read thermometer registers 200° F when inserted into the center of one of the rolls.
Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Invert onto a cooling rack to cool further. Serve warm or at room temperature (with butter, of course!).
4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 clove garlic, minced 1 12-ounce bottle hard cider ½ cup pumpkin puree 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Kosher salt ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice Pinch of cayenne pepper 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into pieces 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese Chopped fresh chives, for topping
Cook the bacon in a medium skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp, about 7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and garlic; cook, stirring, until incorporated, about 2 minutes. Whisk in the cider, pumpkin puree, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt, the pie spice and cayenne until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 3 minutes.
Gradually whisk in the cream cheese and cheddar until melted and smooth, about 2 minutes. Transfer the dip to a bowl, top with the bacon and chives.
Serve with sliced apples or raisin-nut bread.
Pumpkins are much more than just recipe ingredients or decorations. They also have amazing skincare benefits. Reversing the signs of aging, fighting acne, and improving skin texture are just some of the powers pumpkins hold. This October, before tossing your jack-o-lantern, consider using the remains for the benefit of your skin.
While pumpkin may be the perfect fruit for your complexion and health, it may not be enough. Whether you’re looking for a brighter glow or ways to get rid of wrinkles, contact us. At NJVVC we sell professional skincare products that will have you looking like a younger, happier you.
Editor’s Note: This blog was originally published on January 30, 2019. It has been updated to include additional information.
We all love summer. But if you suffer from symptoms of varicose veins, the heat can be a hazard to your health. Don’t let summer keep you indoors. Use our tips to beat the heat.
It’s the time of year to go to the beach, hike, or simply enjoy relaxing on your deck. Throughout the season, your first concern may be the sun’s effect on your skin.
But did you know how seriously the summer heat affects your veins? From swelling to discomfort, the heat can wind up being a real inconvenience.
What the Summer Brings
Summertime naturally leads to more time spent outdoors. The combination of outdoor activity and rising temperature means more pronounced vein conditions.
In the heat, veins naturally dilate for better blood flow. However, when veins swell it can cause issues.
Dilated veins mean your body must fight gravity harder to circulate blood back up to the heart. This added stress can lead to weary veins.
Often, this results in damaged veins and the accumulation of blood in the lower legs. This is how varicose veins can develop and where added discomfort and pain begin. It is also the precursor for a more serious issue called Chronic Venous Insufficiency.
Who is at Risk
There are over 24 million people in the United States that suffer from varicose veins. But the people most at risk are females over fifty years of age.
Women who have had multiple pregnancies are also at a higher risk because of additional stressed placed on veins. Hormonal changes also affect the onset of venous disease. Women in menopause should be particularly careful during the warmer months.
Although it may seem like varicose veins is a disease that targets women, it’s a guy thing too. In fact, nearly 45% of people who suffer from varicose veins are men.
Certain occupations are also more at risk for varicose veins than others. Jobs that include standing or sitting for long periods of time are prone to vein issues.
People who suffer from varicose veins are often affected physically and mentally. Constant pain, even if slight, can greatly impact your attitude and mental state.
Prevention and Preparation
The appearance of varicose veins and unwanted pain can take its toll on anyone. But trying to prevent vein conditions and slow existing ones is a step in the right direction.
Prevention of vein conditions in the summer is similar to prevention during the rest of the year. But it’s important to remember that conditions can easily be exacerbated in hot and humid weather.
By following these guidelines, you should make it through the summer months without added discomfort:
Good General Health
Maintaining a healthy weight, activity, and eating properly are all important for vein health.
Extra weight can put a lot of stress on your body and particularly your legs. Staying in good physical condition means not only a healthy diet but also regular moderate exercising. The combination of movement and eating right may also help reduce excess weight.
And believe it or not, standing up and walking around for only a few minutes really does help!
Stay Hydrated
Drink. Drink. Drink. Getting plenty of fluids to stay hydrated is one of the most important things you can do to remain healthy in the summer heat.
Do you know the recommended amount to drink? Divide your weight in pounds by 2. The answer is the number of ounces you should be drinking daily.
For example, a 150-pound woman should drink 75 ounces of water per day. Though water is the best for hydration, consider supplementing with herbal teas, electrolyte drinks, or fruit-infused water for variety. Just make sure it doesn’t include added sugar or caffeine.
Hydration is key to blood flow. If you aren’t drinking enough water, you may want to start bringing some with you wherever you go.
Remember, by the time you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated.
Wear Loose Pants
Wearing loose pants allows the blood to flow properly with no added resistance.
Try wearing loose-fitting pants if you are going to be out for an extended time. Lightweight, natural fabrics will still allow you to be cool, and can cover your skin from the sun’s direct rays.
Leg Room When Traveling
When traveling in a car, plane, or even sitting at work, giving yourself the appropriate legroom helps with circulation.
Extended plane or automobile trips can result in lengthy periods of sitting in one position. It’s important during these prolonged periods of inactivity to use specific exercises while-on the go.
Get up from your seat on the plane and walk up and down the aisle. Pull into rest areas so that you can get out of the car and move around. Your veins will thank you.
Wear Compression Socks or Stockings
Compression socks and stockings use pressure to help push blood through your lower legs. They are an amazing way to help counter the effects of gravity. It’s really important to wear them if you sit or stand for prolonged periods of time.
Wearing compression stockings or leggings can help your legs feel better and assist your veins in working at an optimal level.
Compression garments are readily available at drug stores, sporting goods stores, and online. They are more comfortable than in the past and are designed to breathe better.
Wear them while working out, being active, or most importantly while traveling.
Put Your Feet Up
Gravity is the main cause of varicose veins, but it can also be a factor that prevents them. By elevating your legs, you are causing the blood to flow to other parts of your body.
Even if there is no place to put your feet up on that plane or in the car, elevate your legs whenever possible. At the beach, try putting your feet up on your bag, a towel, or even a beach ball.
If you are at the park, don’t be afraid to use a bench to elevate your legs. Even a slight elevation will help get your blood pumping back towards your heart and out of your legs.
Cool Down
Beat the heat and cool off. Try to sit in the shade. Wear a hat. Take a dip in the pool. Sip on a cool drink. Go inside occasionally to cool yourself down. And always, always, always wear sunscreen!
Exercising and other activities are best done early in the morning or later in the evening so that the midday sun isn’t bearing down on you.
Help is Available
Summer is a great time of year to enjoy the outdoors. Staying active, traveling, going on vacation, and soaking up the sun are all ways to enjoy the season.
However, over-exposure to hot temperatures for extended periods of time can cause pain and discomfort for those who suffer from varicose veins.
In addition, your lifestyle, including an unhealthy diet, inactivity, or not staying sufficiently hydrated, can cause pain and swelling. By employing compression, heat management, activity breaks, and hydration you can reduce your symptoms.
Suffering from venous issues doesn’t mean you have to forgo the outdoors this summer. Keeping a healthy weight and limiting strenuous activity in the heat are important.
Knowledge and preparation will allow you to enjoy the outdoors while minimizing discomfort.
