9 tips to keep cool this summer while wearing medical compression

Summer and your legs 

Did you know that the sweltering summer heat can have a negative impact on your veins? 

Summer is finally here, and that means BBQs, the beach, and the sun! However, with the weather warming up many people also start to notice that their legs feel tired, swollen, and painful, and prevent them from taking part in the summer activities that they love. 

Those with pre-existing venous problems often find that their condition is aggravated by the warmer temperatures, and even those with healthy veins have noticed that their legs can often feel swollen and painful in the summer months. 

The human body has many ways of cooling itself down, and the veins play a critical role. When you are too hot, your veins expand and this allows fluids to leak into surrounding tissues – it’s your body’s way of keeping cool. 

However, when this happens your veins can often struggle to pump blood back to your heart because they must fight the effects of gravity. Gravity pulls fluid down towards the ankles and feet, which can cause it to pool and this often results in swelling and discomfort. 

Those with varicose veins and other venous problems are more likely to experience increased levels of discomfort and swelling in the summer months because their veins are already expanded, and the heat only further aggravates this problem. This can result in inflamed varicose veins, and the reduced blood flow can lead to a higher risk of thrombosis.

Keep cool this summer with SIGVARIS 

1. In summer, SIGVARIS COTTON compression stockings feel refreshingly cool against your skin. 

2. If you want to wear sandals, simply select a SIGVARIS open toe stocking. The open toe allows for air to flow freely around your feet, helping to keep you refreshed. 

3. On very hot days, you can wet your SIGVARIS stockings intermittently. This can be easily done with a clean sponge, a wet flannel or by simply spraying water onto your garment. Be careful to not wet the foot of the stocking, as this can cause tinea (Athlete’s foot). 

4. On especially hot days, it is recommended that you wear your SIGVARIS stockings for as long as they remain comfortable. It‘s better to benefit from compression for a few hours a day than not at all. 

5. We recommend that you hand wash your SIGVARIS garment daily, or at 40 degrees Celsius on a delicate wash cycle. This will help to maintain the tension in the elastic fibres.

6. Plenty of exercise helps to prevent venous problems. Activities such as swimming, walking, and cycling are excellent choices in summer. 

7. Avoid sunbathing for long periods of time. On those occasions when you find yourself in the sun, ensure you have the necessary sun protection and make sure to cool your legs down afterwards with cold water for at least ten seconds. 

8. Maintain a healthy diet that is high in fibre and be sure to drink plenty of water, especially in summer. Staying hydrated helps to improve blood circulation. 

9. Laying down or walking is more beneficial for your veins than sitting or standing. If your job requires you to be seated for extended periods of time, exercises such as feet tapping (whilst seated, raise and lower your feet 20 times while keeping your heels planted to the floor) can help to relieve pressure build-up in the veins. Elevating your legs will provide further relief.


Originally published at:
https://www.sigvaris.com/au/en-au/news/no-time-tired-legs-summer-feel-lighter-sigvaris

For more information, contact support@garnetmedical.com.au. Garnet Medical is an authorised distributor of SIGVARIS in NSW/ACT. SIGVARIS is the world leader in the development and production of medical compression garments.