How does cold weather affect varicose veins?

It’s likely that we will still see some chilly temps over the next several weeks (brrr!). The cold weather can be harsh on our bodies and have an adverse effect on many parts of it–legs and varicose veins included.

Varicose veins appear as thick, knotted structures under the skin, most often in the legs, causing uncomfortable swelling and other aches and pains. More than 35% of people in the United States suffer from varicose veins (according to the Society for Vascular Surgery), and we are passionate about treating them at VeinSolutions in Austin and Georgetown.

Colder temperatures do not often contribute to the excess swelling and discomfort generally brought on by summer heat, but winter months can cause varicose veins symptoms to increase in the following ways:

• Excess weight gain frequently common during the holidays can put extra pressure and strain on the legs and veins
• Lack of motivation to exercise due to shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures can inhibit proper blood flow
• A drop in atmospheric pressure during the winter can actually slow down the circulatory system and decrease efficient blood flow throughout the body

To help alleviate varicose vein symptoms when it’s cold out, our board-certified vascular surgeons at VeinSolutions suggest exercising regularly, following a healthy diet and staying hydrated, and elevating your feet as much as possible to improve blood flow and diminish swelling in the legs.

Another easy way to care for varicose veins during the cooler months is to wear compression stockings, as they add an extra layer of warmth and support under pants or long skirts.

If you’re considering a more effective varicose vein treatment to get your legs looking and feeling their best before summer, winter is a great time to do it.

VeinSolutions offers many treatments for varicose veins and varicose vein removal options that are minimally-invasive and conveniently performed in our clinic with little to no pain afterwards and often quick recovery times. The procedures our vein specialists perform most often include:

• Sclerotherapy (non-surgical): injecting affected veins with an irritating solution causing the vein walls to break down and dissolve
• Endovenous Ablation (non-surgical): administering heat via a thin catheter causing damaged vein walls to shrink, seal off the blood flow, and then redirect it to healthier veins
• Minimally Invasive Varicose Vein Surgery: varicose veins are surgically removed using tiny tools and sophisticated technology to pinpoint the most affected areas

If you are wondering which varicose vein treatment is right for you, you can refer to this helpful guide.

Please visit us here to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified specialists at VeinSolutions in Austin, or contact us at 512.452.VEIN (8346). For VeinSolutions in Georgetown, please contact us at 512-501-4287.

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