Roaring fires, hot cocoa, and comfy sweaters all epitomize relaxing evenings during winter. At the same time, if you are someone who is vascularly compromised, you should have a clear understanding of how cold weather affects circulation and varicose veins. You might be surprised.
The Good And Bad News About Circulation During Cold Weather
We always like to promote the good news about any topic, and there is actually some good news for those who have circulation issues and suffer with varicose veins. Wintertime temperatures and a lower barometric pressure cause our blood vessels to constrict leading to less leg pain, cramping, and swelling. These narrowed veins help blood to flow more easily. In general, cold weather has a soothing effect on varicose veins, but of course, that’s not the whole story.
Don’t be fooled; there is bad news too.
When you have venous insufficiency, your leg veins are unable to easily move blood back to the heart. When the valves in your veins do not function properly, blood can move backward and pool causing protruding painful varicose veins.
The winter constriction of blood vessels puts strain on those who already have circulation issues, and it prevents the heart from receiving adequate oxygen. This may be the reason we find more adults having heart attacks, strokes, and pulmonary embolisms during the winter season.
Some refer to it as the winter cardiovascular disease phenomenon.
Combatting Winter Circulation Problems
Several factors contribute to cardiovascular issues during the winter time, but it’s possible to be proactive and reverse the trend.
Be More Active
Don’t spend winter on the sofa cuddled up. Get outside, walk, bike, swim, or do some type of exercise to increase circulation. Being sedentary will only encourage more varicose veins and discourage circulation.
Think Before You Indulge
Maintain a healthy and balanced diet during the holidays. Make an effort to avoid salty, fatty, and sugary foods during winter. Extra salt will only increase fluid retention. Instead, opt for colorful fruits and vegetables.
Wear Compression Stockings
They may not look sexy, but no one will see them but you under long trousers and leggings.
Inquire About Treatment Options
Now is the perfect time to find out about today’s effective treatment options for varicose veins, including non-surgical treatments from the Vein Center at Brinton Lake in Glen Mills, PA.
Request an Appointment for Varicose Vein Treatment
Contact the Vein Center at Brinton Lake at (610) 579-3516, or request an appointment online, to discover all your treatment options for circulation problems and varicose veins.
