Varicose veins in the heat: 7 tips for healthy legs in summer

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are permanently enlarged, tortuous veins that often appear on the legs. They are caused by a weakness of the vein walls and/or venous valves. Normally, these valves ensure that the blood in the leg veins flows back to the heart.

When a dysfunction occurs, blood builds up in the legs, causing the veins to dilate.

Varicose veins are one of the most common chronic conditions in Germany. Studies show that many people have varicose veins. Around 50% of women over the age of 30 are affected. The figure for men is around 25%. This information comes from the German Society for Phlebology.

How does heat affect the veins?

1. dilation of the blood vessels

At high temperatures, the body dilates the blood vessels. This allows it to release excess heat through the skin. However, this has an effect on vein function:

• The vessel walls also slacken.
• Venous valves can no longer close properly.
• The venous return is disturbed.
• This leads to blood congestion in the leg veins.

2. increased permeability of the vessel walls

The heat ensures that fluid escapes from the vessels into the tissue. This leads to

• Water retention (edema) in the legs
• Feeling of tension, swelling, pain
• Pressure on surrounding tissue

3. reduced movement at high temperatures

High temperatures often lead to inactivity: we move less, avoid going for walks or exercising.

The problem is that the muscle-venous pump is not working well enough. This pump helps to move blood from the legs to the heart. Varicose veins in the heat cause the blood to pool even more, which worsens the symptoms.

The problem is that the muscle-venous pump is not working well enough. This pump helps to move blood from the legs to the heart. The blood builds up even more.

4. lack of fluids

In summer, the body loses fluid through sweating. If you don’t drink enough, the blood thickens (haemodensity increases), which makes it even harder to return. The viscosity of the blood increases and the flow rate decreases, increasing the risk of thrombosis.

Typical symptoms of varicose veins in the heat

The following symptoms occur more frequently or worsen in summer:

• Heavy, tired legs
• Feeling of tension and pressure in the calves

Ankle swelling (edema) and leg swelling, especially in the evening

• Itching on the lower legs
• Visible spider veins or varicose veins
• Nocturnal calf cramps
• Pain when sitting or standing for long periods

Who is particularly at risk?

The following groups have an increased risk of suffering from increased varicose vein problems in summer:

• People with already diagnosed varicosis or CVI
• Professionals with standing or sedentary work (e.g. sales staff, care workers, office workers)
• Older people (aged 60 and over)
• Overweight people
• Pregnant women
• People with a family history of stress
• Patients with hormonal changes (e.g. taking oestrogen preparations)

7 tips for healthy legs in summer

1. incorporate exercise – even in the heat

Regular exercise is the key to vein health. Even a daily 30-minute walk in the morning or evening activates the muscle pump. Sports such as:

• Swimming (water pressure supports the veins)
• Cycling
• Nordic Walking
• Yoga or vein gymnastics

2. drink a lot – at least 2 to 2.5 liters a day

Adequate hydration keeps the blood flowing and improves venous return. This is ideal:

• Water
• Unsweetened herbal or fruit teas
• Diluted fruit juices

Avoid alcohol, as it has a vasodilating effect.

3. elevate your legs

Elevate your legs several times a day for 15-20 minutes – above heart level. This reduces venous pressure and promotes reflux.

Tip: Use a small stool in the office or place a cushion under your legs when watching TV.

4. cold showers and Kneipp treatments

Cold water stimulates the veins and leads to vasoconstriction. This counteracts swelling and strengthens the vascular walls.

• Cold-warm alternating showers
• Cold leg casts (e.g. according to the Kneipp method)
• Treading water

5. wear compression stockings

Modern compression stockings are made of breathable materials and are comfortable to wear even in summer. They:

• Reduce swelling
• Support the muscle pump
• Promote reflux

At VenaZiel Berlin you can get individually fitted compression stockings – also in fashionable designs.

6. avoid sun and heat

Avoid spending long periods in direct sunlight. Wear light, airy clothing and use shady areas. Heat from the sun promotes vasodilation and thus the symptoms.

7. go for a vein examination at an early stage

Don’t wait until pain occurs. Early diagnosis – for example using duplex ultrasound – can prevent later complications such as thrombosis or open legs. The VenaZiel Vein Center Berlin offers comprehensive diagnostics by experienced specialists.

Modern therapy options – available all year round

Modern therapies can also be carried out in summer, as they are usually outpatient, minimally invasive and quickly effective:

VenaSeal(vein glue)

• Gentle process without heat
• No need to wear compression stockings
• Immediately mobile again

Radiofrequency ablation(RFA)

• Thermal closure procedure with catheter
• Local anesthesia, can be performed on an outpatient basis
• Hardly any pain, short recovery time

Endovenous laser therapy(EVLA)

• Laser closes the vein from the inside
• Particularly suitable for truncal varicosis
• Very high success rate

Microfoam sclerotherapy(sclerotherapy)

• Ideal for smaller side branches and spider veins
• Cosmetically effective method
• Several sessions possible

Why VenaZiel Berlin?

The VenaZiel Venenzentrum Berlin MVZ GmbH specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of venous disorders. Our experienced team of phlebologists and vascular surgeons offers:

• State-of-the-art diagnostics (incl. duplex ultrasound)
• Individual consultation and therapy planning
• All modern endovenous procedures in-house
• Outpatient operations in our own air-conditioned operating center
• Tailor-made aftercare and compression therapy

Conclusion

Varicose veins get worse in the heat in summer for various reasons. The heat makes the veins bigger. If you don’t drink enough, the blood becomes thicker. You also move less, which weakens the muscles that pump the blood back to the heart.

This leads to an increase in symptoms such as swelling, pain and tiredness in the legs.

With the right measures – exercise, compression, fluids, cold applications – many symptoms can be alleviated. If you act in time, you can prevent complications and enjoy a carefree summer.

The VenaZiel Vein Center Berlin is a competent partner at your side.

Make an appointment now: www.venaziel.de

Sources and scientific references

1. Rabe E. et al. (2016). Guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic venous diseases. German Society for Phlebology
2. Nicolaides A. et al (2014). Management of chronic venous disorders. International Angiology
3. Eberhardt RT, Raffetto JD. (2014). Chronic venous insufficiency. Circulation
4. Gloviczki P. et al. (2011). The care of patients with varicose veins. Journal of Vascular Surgery
5. O’Donnell TF et al (2017). Guidelines of the American Venous Forum. Journal of Vascular Surgery: Venous and Lymphatic Disorders
6. Kneipp-Bund e.V. (2022). Hydrotherapy and vein health
7. Partsch H. (2003). Compression therapy of the legs. Phlebology
8. Mosti G. et al. (2012). Compression therapy efficacy. European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
9. Manz F. et al. (2002). Hydration status in the general population. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
10. Ziegler S. (2019). Venous diseases and varicose veins in heat – pathophysiology and treatment options. Current phlebology