SUMMER HEAT &
Varicose Disease by Kristy Como Armand
As we move into the hottest months of summer in Southwest Louisiana, “fun in the sun” transitions to “beat the heat” for most people. This is even more important for those who have venous conditions, such as varicose veins, because the summer heat can worsen pain and other symptoms. To better understand why heat affects varicose veins, Dr. Carl Fastabend, founder and medical director of the Vein Center of Southwest Louisiana, and the only full-time, comprehensive vein specialist in the state, says it helps to first understand why varicose veins form. “Healthy leg veins contain valves that open and close to assist the return of blood back to the heart, but sometimes these valves stop functioning properly, and venous reflux disease can develop, causing blood to pool in the legs. This can lead to a progression of symptoms, including varicose veins, which are surface veins that have become enlarged, swollen, twisted, and/ or bulging due to vein disease.”
Dr. Fastabend explains that varicose veins tend to worsen during the summer months because the body’s natural reaction to heat is to dilate the blood vessels to help cool the body. “For someone with varicose veins, this increased blood flow puts even more strain on the valves, making it even harder for them to work properly – and easier for blood to stay in the vein. This can aggravate what is already an uncomfortable condition, resulting in worsening symptoms, including painful, visible veins; swelling in in the legs and feet; tired, aching legs; itchy, dry skin; and heaviness.” Some people assume that varicose veins are primarily a cosmetic concern, but Dr. Fastabend says varicose veins are often a sign of underlying vein disease and may require treatment to prevent a more serious venous problem from developing. “It’s also important for those with varicose veins to understand that safe, effective, minimally-invasive treatment is available that provides immediate relief and results,” says Dr. Fastabend. “You don’t have to live with a restricted quality of life because of varicose veins. The help you need is available.”
Dr. Fastabend offers some suggestions for relieving heat-related symptoms of varicose veins:
• Stay as cool as possible. • Swim and walk. Both exercises can improve circulation which helps with swelling and overall vein health. • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids. • Elevate the legs whenever possible. • Wear loose pants to allow the blood to flow with no added resistance. • When traveling in a car, plane, or even sitting at work, try to give yourself leg room to stretch out your legs to help with circulation. • Wear compression socks or stockings – even if only for a portion of the day. For more information about vein disorders and treatment options, contact the Vein Center of Southwest Louisiana at 337-312-VEIN or visit www.veincenterswla.com.
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