Cold weather and chronic venous insufficiency: what impact?
Cold weather impact on blood circulation and vein health is often overlooked, especially in the case of preexisting circulatory conditions like varicose veins.
Chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins: what are we talking about?1,2
The term chronic venous insufficiency describes a condition, more common with increasing age, that occurs when the veins are unable to pump blood effectively back to the heart. It affects the venous system of the lower extremities with venous hypertension causing various pathologies including pain, swelling, edema, skin changes, and ulcerations.
Besides age, risk factors found to be associated with chronic venous insufficiency include sex, a family history of varicose veins, obesity, pregnancy, phlebitis, and previous leg injury. There also may be environmental or behavioral factors associated with chronic venous insufficiency such as prolonged standing and a sitting posture at work.
Otherwise, the most common manifestations of chronic venous disease are dilated cutaneous veins, such as varicose veins, which affect between 5% to 30% of the adult population, with a female to male predominance of 3 to 1. Varicose veins are a common circulation disorder marked by vein growth and twisting, most commonly in the legs. These veins are frequently large, bulging, and blue or dark purple. Varicose veins form when the vein valves that control blood flow back to the heart become weaker or damaged. This malfunction causes blood to pool in the veins, causing them to expand and become visible on the skin's surface.
How winter may affect your blood circulation and vein health2,3
Blood circulation is a vital process in the human body, ensuring that oxygen, nutrients, and other essential elements are transported to every cell, tissue, and organ. The heart pumps blood through a complex network of arteries, veins, and capillaries, creating a continuous flow that sustains life. However, this intricate system is sensitive to external conditions, including temperature changes.
When exposed to cold weather, the body instinctively works to preserve heat, primarily to maintain the core temperature and protect vital organs. One of the mechanisms the body employs to achieve this is the constriction of blood vessels, particularly those close to the skin’s surface. This process, known as vasoconstriction, reduces blood flow to extremities such as fingers and toes, minimizing heat loss.
Moreover, the cold-induced constriction of blood vessels can increase blood pressure, as the same volume of blood must travel through a smaller space. This added pressure can strain the veins, potentially leading to damage or exacerbating existing vein-related issues. Last, cold temperatures can increase blood viscosity. Thicker blood may flow more slowly through veins, potentially increasing the risk of clot formation or aggravating existing venous issues.
This is why cold weather can aggravate the symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency as the veins have to work harder against the constricted blood vessels to maintain blood flow. Winter may also have adverse effects on varicose veins. While cold weather may not directly cause varicose veins, it can exacerbate symptoms such as pain and contribute to discomfort.
Practical tips on maintaining good vein health during the winter months3
Proactive measures can be taken to mitigate risks and maintain healthy blood circulation, even in the chilliest of temperatures, especially for individuals living in colder climates or those with preexisting circulatory or vein conditions. Below are strategies to help improve blood circulation and support vein health in cold weather.
Stay warm and layered2,3
Dressing in layers and ensuring clothing is not overly tight especially around the waist, groin, knees, and ankles, is key to keeping warm in winter. Warmth reduces the impact of cold-induced vasoconstriction and maintains a comfortable temperature for the extremities, such as fingers, toes, ears, and the nose; ensure that these are well protected as they are most susceptible to the cold. Using thermal socks, gloves, and hats can make a significant difference.
Keep moving2-4
Given the low temperatures and possible bad weather, it is understandable that your activity levels tend to drop during the winter months and that we stay sitting or standing for longer indoors. But even if you can’t get outdoors as easily, it is important to keep moving. A sedentary lifestyle decreases circulation and can aggravate the symptoms of varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency. To manage and prevent the exacerbation of these vein-related conditions during cold weather, it is necessary to stay active, and pay attention to any changes or worsening of symptoms.
Physical activity is essential for promoting healthy blood circulation. Regular exercise helps to pump blood through the veins and keeps the circulatory system functioning optimally. Incorporate activities like walking, swimming, cycling, or even indoor exercises during winter to enhance blood flow, reduce venous stasis, and strengthen the calf muscles, which also aids in pumping blood back to the heart.
Stay hydrated2,3
Cold weather can reduce the sensation of thirst, leading to dehydration. This can lead to thicker blood, making it harder for the circulatory system to function. Maintaining adequate fluid intake during winter allows you to support optimal blood viscosity, preventing sluggish blood flow and reducing the risk of clot formation.
Stay warm indoors3
Keeping your living and working spaces adequately heated helps in maintaining a stable body temperature, which supports better blood circulation.
Elevate your legs3
Elevating your legs can help improve blood flow back to the heart and reduce pressure on the veins in your legs. Try to take short breaks throughout the day to elevate your legs, even in winter, especially if you have a job that requires prolonged standing or sitting.
Wear compression stockings2
For those with existing varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency, compression stockings provide graduated pressure, helping to improve venous return, support weakened veins, and reduce symptoms such as pain, swelling, and discomfort, especially during prolonged periods of standing or sitting.
If you experience symptoms of varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency, it is important not to hesitate to consult your doctor to get a proper diagnose and treatment.
