July 16, 2020 Are your legs swelling during the summer? Learn why this happens and how to alleviate it
It’s time to step outside and enjoy the beautiful summer weather. Spring 2020 was challenging for all of us, but the sun is finally back in full swing and shining brightly.
Humid air, hot evenings– what’s not to love? For some people, the warmth of summer has its drawbacks; for instance, those who are prone to leg swelling and heaviness often see their condition become exacerbated by hotter temperatures. This swelling, more accurately referred to as edema, is caused by venous insufficiencies that lead to blood stagnation in the lower part of the body.
Why do heavy legs seem worse in the summer?
When legs are exposed to sun and heat, veins can become excessively dilated and small valves are weakened, making it difficult for veins to pump blood back to the heart. This poor circulation then causes fluid retention in the legs.
Body temperature is regulated by the hypothalamus, a portion of the brain that responds to stimuli and makes the necessary adjustments to keep your body’s internal functions in balance. One way the body adjusts to heat is by increasing circulation near the skin by decreasing vein contraction, which can lead to the unfortunate side effects of fluid buildup and increased swelling. Summer might be good for the soul, but it’s heavy on our legs!
How can I alleviate edema during the warm summer months?
A simple and effective way to counteract edema is to stay hydrated. Drinking around 1.5-2 litres of water throughout the day is strongly recommended. It’s also very important to stick to a healthy diet and opt for foods that fight retention, such as nuts, fish, and other protein-rich choices. Be sure to avoid excess salt and caffeine, which are common causes of water retention.
Another quick tip: choose the right footwear. Avoid wearing shoes that are too narrow like high heels, or too flat like flip-flops. Try to walk barefoot as often as possible to help promote proper circulation.
You can also give yourself a quick calf massage and take regular cold foot baths to reduce pressure and lower your body temperature. When relaxing at night, keeping your legs slightly elevated can be very beneficial, while a standing position is suggested during office hours. And make sure to stay active whenever you can! Even a short 30-minute walk once a day can do wonders for circulation.
Finally, compression socks can be a significant help. More fitted than regular stockings, they gently squeeze the legs to improve blood flow. Supporo offers a wide variety of models depending on the degree of compression required. There are also plenty of options for socks or footless sleeves adapted to your favorite activities, even during the summer!
