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.
Eating foods that improve circulation is another great way to protect your veins.
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.
Read more:- https://njvvc.com/how-the-summer-heat-affects-your-veins/
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