The autumn and winter months are generally easier on your varicose veins than the heat of the summer. As the weather cools, veins are less likely to dilate, and you may even notice a reduction in swelling. This can provide a bit of relief, however, this won’t last forever, and as soon as the weather begins to warm up, you might notice that your veins start feeling worse in the heat.
Our guide below explains why this time of year is ideal for getting treatment at our hospital, the largest provider in England for varicose vein removal (PHIN 2023).
1. Varicose veins can feel worse in the winter
As the amount of daylight decreases and the nights draw in, it can be tempting to stay indoors on the sofa. However, being sedentary or spending long periods of time not moving about can decrease circulation and make veins feel more uncomfortable.
As the temperature drops outside, we begin to rely on our indoor central heating, hot baths and long, luxurious showers to keep warm. All of these can increase your body temperature and make troublesome veins swell.
Finally, as well as turning to warming stews and comfort food, in the run up to Christmas we often attend more social gatherings. Drinking more alcohol and eating foods that are high in fat and sugar can lead to weight gain, which can affect your veins.
2. No more uncomfortable varicose vein symptoms next summer!
If you have varicose veins, you’ll know straight away by their swollen, bulging, blue or dark purple appearance. But you’ll also know due to the symptoms that accompany them such as:
- Leg muscle cramping
- Swollen ankles and feet
- Uncomfortable, heavy and aching legs
After having minimally invasive Endovenous Laser Treatment, you may still notice some red patches, darkened skin or bruises on your legs for a few weeks while you recover.
Take advantage of the fact that you’re more likely to wear clothes that cover your legs during the winter months, so the healing process can take place beneath long trousers or skirts - making it the ideal time to arrange treatment for your veins.
3 There’s no time like the present
Most patients our Consultant Vascular Surgeon, Mr Sweeney sees have had varicose veins for up to a decade before seeking Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT). It can be tempting to put off treatment, but the sooner you have varicose veins treated, the sooner you can reduce the pain in your legs and return to your day-to-day activities.
4. You can better tolerate bandages or compression stockings
If you do go ahead with varicose veins removal, your Consultant will apply a non-stick bandage or may recommend you wear compression stockings for a few days after the procedure. At this time of year, your legs are less likely to overheat than in the summer and the bandage/stockings will be hidden by longer clothing.
5. Your legs will be in tip-top condition for next summer
It can take a while to see the results from varicose vein treatment – especially if you’re having larger veins treated. By having treatment in winter, your legs will be fully recovered in time for the spring and summer months.
At Benenden Hospital, England’s largest provider of veins removal (PHIN, 2023), we offer minimally invasive, walk-in, walk-out Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) for varicose veins.
Treatment typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes, so you’ll be able to:
- Go home within an hour
- Return to work whenever you choose
- Drive after a few days
- Get back to gym in two weeks
We also offer Sclerotherapy for smaller varicose veins and spider veins.
Book your initial consultation today or for more information on our varicose vein treatments, complete our online enquiry form, contact us using Livechat or call our Private Patient Team on 01580 363158.
Published on 01 November 2023