If you suffer from varicose veins you probably already know that the winter months can be tough on your varicose veins.
A Variety of Factors Are to Blame
One of the common aggravators for varicose veins is weight gain, and for several reasons, this is the season when it is common for patients to gain some additional weight. Holiday parties and get-togethers with family and friends likely mean there will be plenty of opportunities to indulge in rich foods. Colder weather means you will likely exercise less or be limited in the exercise you can do.
Weight gain from less exercise and over-eating means that your varicose veins may cause more problems for you during the winter months than other times of the year.
When the temperatures start to drop significantly, atmospheric pressure will also change. This change in pressure can cause your circulatory system to become less efficient, and that has a tendency to aggravate vein problems.
Ways to Ease Your Symptoms
For patients who suffer from varicose veins and find the winter months are particularly difficult, some steps you can take include making sure you get high-fiber foods that are good for circulation; elevating your legs for at least half an hour before bed, and massage your calves and ankles when possible.
Stretching
Patients can also find relief in stretching three times a day. Stretching regularly in the morning, afternoon and evening can help to ease the discomfort caused by varicose veins.
Diet & Exercise
Being careful about what you eat and getting creative about maintaining your exercise regimen even if you are limited in your ability to exercise outside are also ways that you can ease the winter impact on your varicose veins.
Drink Enough Water
One other way you can minimize the impact colder weather has on your varicose veins is to make sure you are drinking plenty of water, which is a good idea regardless of the season. However, in the winter we often don’t feel as thirsty as we do in warm summer and spring months, and so it’s easy to forget to stay properly hydrated.