Improving Circulation in Winter

Cooler weather can put stress on the body during the winter months. It can cause dry skin, weaken immunity leading to colds and respiratory infections, and it can exacerbate conditions like poor circulation.

When temperatures dip down, it causes blood vessels to constrict, making it more difficult for blood to pump and circulate through veins. Colder temps can also cause blood to thicken and have a harder time flowing efficiently. If you are already prone to poor circulation, it would be wise to make the effort to try to improve circulation during the wintertime.

Some common conditions that may lead to poor circulation include varicose veins, blood clots, and obesity. Varicose veins affect more more than 35% of adults in the United States and are typically characterized by swollen, aching legs, and a purplish, spider-like appearance.

Blood clots can occur unexpectedly or as a result of certain genetic clotting factors or a lack of mobility and a sedentary lifestyle.

The extra weight and pressure put on the body by obesity can lead to veins being compressed or narrowed, requiring them to work harder to pump blood efficiently.

At VeinSolutions, our team of board-certified vascular surgeons and vein experts routinely treat both varicose veins and blood clots, which frequently occur in the lower extremities (legs and feet) and also tend to be most at risk for frostbite and tissue damage in the cold when not adequately covered up.

If not monitored, poor circulation can lead to serious local tissue damage in the extremities or a lack of vital blood flow and oxygen to the heart, brain and other organs.

Here are five ways that our vein specialists recommend to improve your circulation in the winter months.

Five Tips to Boost Circulation in the Winter

Stay active.

When we exercise, our heart rate increases, which gets blood pumping throughout the body. Aim for at least 30 minutes, five times a week for average adults. Also don’t forget to wear layers if exercising outside.

Manage stress

The holidays can cause added stress with travel or social, family and financial obligations. Stress can elevate your blood pressure and have an opposite and just as serious side effect on your body as poor circulation – stress can lead to high blood pressure and the potential for stroke or heart attack. Find time to do something you enjoy over the holidays to get your mind off things and schedule concrete times for relaxation and self-care.

Eat well

Indulging in too many holiday foods during the winter months can have an adverse effect on circulation. Eating processed foods full of added fats, sugar and sodium can lead to plaque build-up in arteries which slows down circulation. Stick to a healthy diet of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and protein sources like beans, and enjoy your favorite holiday treats in moderation.

Keep hydrated

The more hydrated you are, the easier time your body has pumping blood through your body.   So drink up! Clear, sugar-free liquids like flavored sparkling waters or teas and light fruit juices are festive options during the holidays.

Watch your alcohol consumption and quit smoking

Both alcohol and smoking have a negative impact on circulation as they cause blood vessels to narrow and constrict, making it harder for blood to flow. Drink alcoholic beverages in moderation, and consider a smoking cessation program to start if not now, then right after the holidays. The gift of good health is the best gift that you can receive!

If you suffer from stubborn varicose veins and want to improve the look and feel of your legs in the new year, and ultimately help boost your overall circulation, VeinSolutions offers many convenient , in-office treatments for successful varicose vein removal.

Contact VeinSolutions for Your Consultation Today

Our board-certified vascular surgeons and vein specialists are skilled in both cosmetic and therapeutic treatments for varicose veins while dedicated to enhancing your overall circulatory health.

To schedule an appointment with a vein specialist in Austin, please contact us here or call 512.452.VEIN (8346), or 512.501.4287 for our clinic in Georgetown, and 512.651.8420 for Kyle.

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