Why Do My Varicose Veins Hurt in Warm Weather?

Today, San Diegans experienced an unseasonable heat wave and gusty winds.  Many people with varicose veins may notice worsening leg pain today or with warm weather and heat in general.

The reason for this is that heat causes veins to expand and trap more blood. In unhealthy veins, such as varicose veins, the walls are weak allowing for them to relax and fill with blood.  The pooling of blood does not circulate well in varicose veins, causing increased pressure within the leg veins.  This can give the sensation of sluggishness, pain, aching, heaviness and swelling. Hot tubs, whirlpool baths, heated floors, sitting near a heat source and working in overheated rooms can all add to the problem.