Summer and Varicose Veins: How to Keep Your Legs Comfortable in the Heat

Written March 24, 2025Encino Vascular Institute

Varicose veins can be a year-round struggle, but the summer heat often worsens them. If you suffer from varicose veins burning, heat sensitivity, or sensitive veins, you may have noticed that your symptoms flare up during warm weather. But why does this happen? More importantly, how can you protect your legs and stay comfortable when the temperatures rise? This article will explore the causes of varicose veins, their connection to summer heat, and effective ways to manage your symptoms during the hotter months.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins occur when the veins become enlarged, twisted, and overfilled with blood. They are usually caused by weakened vein valves that allow blood to pool instead of circulating correctly. Several factors contribute to their development, including:

• Genetics – If your parents had varicose veins, you are more likely to develop them.
• Age – The veins lose elasticity as you age, making it harder for blood to flow correctly.
• Prolonged Standing or Sitting – Jobs that require long hours on your feet can increase pressure on the veins.
• Pregnancy – Increased blood volume and hormonal changes can contribute to varicose veins.
• Obesity – Extra weight puts additional pressure on the veins.
• Blood Pressure Issues – High blood pressure can strain the vein walls, making them more prone to varicose veins.

How the Summer Heat Makes Varicose Veins Worse

Many ask, “Why do my veins pop out when it’s hot?” or “Does heat make veins more visible?” The answer lies in how heat affects circulation. When temperatures rise, the body cools itself by dilating (widening) the blood vessels. This increased dilation can lead to:

• Increased Swelling – More blood pools in the veins, causing them to bulge even more.
• More Visible Veins – The heat expands the veins, making them appear more prominent and noticeable.
• Higher Risk of Pain and Discomfort—The added pressure in the veins can lead to a burning sensation in varicose and sensitive veins.
• Blood Clot Risk—While rare, can heating pads cause blood clots? Overusing heat sources like heating pads can contribute to poor circulation and potential clotting issues.

Link Between Temperature Changes and Varicose Vein Symptoms

Many people with varicose veins notice that symptoms flare up during seasonal shifts. But what causes varicose veins to flare up? The answer often lies in temperature fluctuations that:

• Cause veins to expand and contract rapidly, straining weakened vein walls.
• This leads to increased blood pooling in the legs due to slowed circulation.
• Make veins more prone to irritation and inflammation, increasing discomfort.

Additionally, men experiencing varicoceles (a similar condition affecting the testicular veins) may wonder, “What causes varicocele to flare up?” Just like varicose veins in the legs, heat can also lead to increased dilation, discomfort, and swelling in these veins.

How to Protect Your Legs During Summer

Although hot veins can be an issue, there are ways to minimize discomfort and keep your legs healthy during warm months. Here are some tips:

1. Stay Cool

• Avoid hot baths and saunas, as they can worsen warm varicose veins.
• Use cold compresses on your legs to reduce inflammation.
• Stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible.

2. Elevate Your Legs

• Raising your legs above heart level can reduce swelling and promote circulation.
• Try propping your legs on pillows while lying down.

3. Stay Active

• Gentle walking and swimming help boost circulation without overheating.
• Avoid prolonged sitting or standing to prevent blood pooling.

4. Wear Compression Stockings

• These apply gentle pressure to help support circulation and prevent blood from pooling.

5. Hydrate Well

• Drinking plenty of water helps keep blood thin and prevents dehydration, which can make symptoms worse.

Reduce Swelling and Discomfort from Varicose Veins in Warm Climates

Managing heat sensitivity in the summer can be tricky, but the following lifestyle changes can help:

• Reduce Salt Intake – Too much salt leads to water retention worsening leg swelling.
• Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods – Fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s can help improve circulation.
• Massage Therapy – Gentle leg massages can relieve tension and improve circulation.
• Cool Showers – Rinsing legs with cool water after exposure to heat can reduce swelling and varicose veins burning.
• Proper Footwear – Avoid tight shoes and high heels, as they can increase venous pressure.

Can You Ever Get Rid of Varicose Veins?

One of the most common questions is, “Does heat help varicose veins?” The answer is no, heat often makes them worse. However, some treatments can help reduce or eliminate varicose veins:

1. Sclerotherapy – A minimally invasive procedure that injects a solution into the vein, causing it to collapse.
2. Laser Therapy – Uses laser energy to close off damaged veins.
3. Endovenous Ablation – A catheter-based treatment that uses heat or radiofrequency to seal veins.
4. Surgical Removal (Vein Stripping) – Surgery may be needed in severe cases.

While these treatments can help, maintaining healthy habits is crucial to preventing new varicose veins from forming.

Schedule an Appointment with Encino Vascular

If you’re struggling with warm varicose veins, heat sensitivity, or sensitive veins this summer, professional treatment can help you find relief. Don’t let discomfort stop you from enjoying the season—schedule an appointment with Encino Vascular today to explore the best treatment options for your varicose veins!