Under the expert guidance of our Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, Dr. Mark Zuzga, our team of Vein Specialists & Vascular Experts are committed to delivering top-tier outpatient vascular & vein evaluation and treatment throughout the greater Tampa & West Florida surrounding areas. Should you find yourself dealing with leg pain, swelling, ulcers, discoloration, or the appearance of spider and varicose veins, we invite you to request a screening todayDoes the Sun Cause Varicose Veins?
Now that summer is here, you probably find yourself enjoying many outdoor activities. Summertime parties, camping, hiking and sun bathing are all popular in the southwest Florida region. Since you are wearing shorts more often in the increasing heat, have you noticed an increase in varicose veins?
Varicose veins are caused by venous insufficiency where the vein walls have weakened and the valves inside of the veins are not properly functioning. Blood pools in these veins and causes pain and swelling. Varicose veins tend to happen in the legs and ankles, so most people will notice them more in the summertime.
But, does the sun cause varicose veins? No, actually it does not cause them. Heredity, lifestyle and pregnancy are all causes of varicose veins. The sun raises the body temperature, which can make veins dilate and blood pool in them. This can make your existing varicose veins more uncomfortable, but it does not create new ones. To cool you off, your blood will flow closer to the skin. By doing this, your varicose veins may seem larger since they are engorged due to the heat and closer to the skin.
The sun can, however, cause tiny spider veins on your face and chest. To avoid this, apply a high SPF sunscreen before heading out to the pool, beach or anywhere in the sunshine. Try to avoid the hours between 10 am – 2 pm when the sun is at its strongest.
By reducing your body temperature in air conditioning and cool pool water, your varicose veins will not be as noticeable. If you feel that you are self-conscious about wearing shorts during the summer or your bathing suit on the beach due to your varicose veins, there are solutions for you. Modern medical technology has made obliterating varicose veins a simple and easy procedure with little down time.
Doing a Vein Screening here at West Florida Vein Center can determine the best remedy to your varicose or spider veins. The earlier you catch and treat any type of venous issue, the better the ultimate results will be. For a proper diagnosis, please call our office and schedule an appointment with Dr. Mark Zuzga.