Q: With summer coming up, what causes varicose veins, and is there anything I can do?
A: With summer around the corner, I start to hear this question a lot more. People are spending more time outside, wearing shorts, going to the pool, and suddenly those veins they have not thought much about are a little more noticeable.
Varicose veins happen when the valves inside your veins stop working the way they should. Normally, these valves help push blood back up toward the heart. When they weaken, blood can settle in the veins, especially in the legs, and that is what causes them to stretch and become more visible. Some people are more prone to this because of family history, age, pregnancy or jobs that involve a lot of standing or sitting. Heat can also make them look worse, which is why they tend to stand out more in the summer.
The good news is there are some simple things you can do to help. Try not to sit or stand in one position for too long. If you are traveling or working at a desk, take breaks to move around. Walking is one of the best things you can do for circulation. When you are resting, putting your legs up for a bit can help. Compression socks can also be useful, especially if you are on your feet a lot or taking a long trip.
A lot of people think varicose veins are just cosmetic, and sometimes they are. But if you are having symptoms like aching, heaviness, swelling or changes in the skin, it is worth getting checked out. We have very good, minimally invasive options now, and you do not have to just live with the discomfort. Sometimes your legs are trying to tell you something, and it is better to listen early than wait until it becomes a bigger issue.