When high temperatures and excessive humidity persist, we can expect to feel at least a little uncomfortable, and with good reason. Heat affects many mechanisms in your body, and your vascular system is no exception.
With record-breaking heat this summer, it’s no surprise we’re seeing summer affecting vein health for many people. Here’s what you should know about warm weather and your veins.
Why Are Veins Worse in Summer Heat?
When the air is hot and humid, your heart has to work harder to dissipate excess heat. One way it does so is through vasodilation, or the widening of your blood vessels to enhance blood flow. By increasing the volume and rate of blood flow (by as much as four times), your body loses heat, thus regulating its temperature.
Although vasodilation has an overall positive effect, it can be uncomfortable — especially if you have preexisting vein issues like varicose veins. As your already-enlarged veins fill with more blood, you may notice your symptoms intensifying: swelling, aching, itching, and other forms of discomfort can increase if you’ve been spending time out in the heat.
And though vein conditions are worse in summer weather, it’s also your entire cardiovascular system that may become strained in the heat. Pumping more blood at a faster rate can stress your heart, which can worsen when you lose sodium and potassium through sweat.
Heat stress can also occur, in which your body is unable to eliminate excess heat quickly enough as your core temperature rises. Although cooling off quickly can reverse the impact of heat stress, if left unaddressed it could lead to heat stroke, a more serious condition that causes your sweating mechanisms to fail to cool you off, potentially leading to seizures or even death. Risks of heat illness are greatest when the temperature exceeds 70 degrees and humidity is above 70%, especially for people who are over the age of 50, are overweight, or have preexisting heart, lung, or kidney problems.
Ways to Beat Heat Illness and Reduce Vein Swelling in Summer
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce the effects of vein issues in the summer while also preventing heat stress.
Minimize outdoor activities
If possible, keep your outdoor activities concentrated in the early morning hours or evenings, when the temperature is lower.
Stay cool outside
If you have to be outside, cool off by taking frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning. Use a cooling towel or personal fan to help keep your body temperature down. Wear breathable, lightweight fabrics in light colors.
Hydrate
Not only does excess sweat cause you to lose essential minerals, but it can also make your blood thicker and more difficult for your arteries to circulate. Get plenty of hydration this season by drinking lots of water and eating water-rich foods like watermelon, cantaloupe, cucumbers, and lettuce.
Cut your salt intake in summer
With summer affecting veins in such pronounced ways, it’s best to limit any added stress on them however you can. One way to do so is to avoid salty foods. Your kidneys work to maintain a balance of salt and water, so they will hang onto extra moisture if you’ve had more salt than usual. This retained water will put more pressure on already-stressed veins, so try to cut your sodium intake when the weather is hot.
Schedule an Appointment With Vascular Surgical Associates
While these prevention strategies can help you avoid worsening vein issues, ongoing symptoms may persist no matter the weather. If you’re experiencing vein problems, turn to our vein center for help from one of our board-certified vascular surgeons. For appointments, request a visit using our online form or by calling 770-423-0595.