What Causes Varicose Veins to Flare Up in Summer? | Tips from Riverside, CA Experts

Summer in Riverside, CA brings warmth, sunshine, and longer days—but for many, it also brings discomfort in the form of varicose vein flare-ups. If you notice your legs feeling heavier, more swollen, or achier than usual when temperatures rise, you’re not alone. Heat and lifestyle changes during the warmer months can significantly impact venous health, especially for those already struggling with varicose veins.

In this article, we’ll explore the science behind summer-related varicose vein flare-ups, symptoms to watch for, and four effective preventive strategies to help you enjoy your summer without added leg pain.

Why Do Varicose Veins Flare Up in the Summer?

Varicose veins form when vein valves weaken, allowing blood to pool in the legs instead of circulating properly back to the heart. While several factors contribute to their development, heat and humidity can dramatically worsen the symptoms. Here’s why:

1. Increased Temperature Causes Veins to Dilate

During hot weather, your blood vessels naturally expand (a process known as vasodilation) to help your body cool down. While this is a normal and healthy response, for those with weakened vein valves, it can spell trouble. Dilated veins hold more blood, increasing pressure in the lower limbs and causing varicose veins to bulge, ache, or swell.

2. Dehydration and Salt Retention

People tend to sweat more during summer, which can lead to dehydration if fluid intake isn’t balanced. Dehydration can thicken your blood, slowing circulation and making varicose veins more prominent. Additionally, higher consumption of salty foods at summer barbecues or events can lead to fluid retention, contributing to swelling in the legs.

3. Less Compression Wear

In warmer months, many people stop wearing compression stockings due to discomfort or heat. While understandable, skipping this supportive wear can worsen venous pressure and result in increased symptoms.

4. Lifestyle Changes

Vacations, long travel hours, or more time spent standing or walking can all affect your circulation. Whether you’re strolling downtown Riverside or standing for long hours at outdoor events, prolonged standing or sitting without movement increases the risk of a varicose vein flare-up.

Common Summer Symptoms of a Varicose Vein Flare-Up

While varicose veins are usually visible, their flare-ups bring with them a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

Heaviness or aching in the legs, especially by evening
Throbbing or burning sensations
Swollen ankles and feet
Skin discoloration or itching
Cramping, especially at night

If you experience worsening symptoms during summer, it’s essential to address them proactively. Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious conditions like venous ulcers or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

4 Preventive Measures to Manage Varicose Veins During Summer

Now that you know why summer can be tough on your veins, here are four medically approved strategies to reduce flare-ups and promote vein health during the hotter months:

1. Stay Cool and Hydrated

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent vein dilation is to keep your body temperature down. Here’s how:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support healthy circulation
Use cold compresses or take cool showers after outdoor activities
Avoid direct sunlight for prolonged periods
Choose lightweight, breathable clothing to help regulate body heat

In Riverside, CA, where temperatures can soar, keeping cool isn’t just about comfort—it’s about preventing pain and inflammation in your veins.

2. Use Compression Stockings (Even in Summer)

Yes, they may feel warm—but compression stockings are essential for maintaining vein health. They apply gentle pressure that helps blood move upward, preventing pooling in the legs.

Modern compression wear comes in breathable, lightweight fabrics designed for warm climates. Look for open-toe or sheer options that allow for better airflow.

If you live in or around Riverside, consider visiting a vascular specialist to get fitted for the right type of compression garment for your lifestyle.

3. Elevate Your Legs After Activity

After a long day of walking, standing, or even sitting, elevating your legs can relieve the pressure in your veins. Aim to raise your legs above heart level for 15–30 minutes, ideally a few times a day.

You can do this:

By lying down with your legs propped up on pillows
Sitting in a recliner with your feet elevated
Using a wall-assisted stretch (lie on your back and place your legs up against the wall)

This encourages venous return and reduces swelling, especially important after outdoor activities in the Riverside heat.

4. Maintain Regular, Gentle Exercise

Regular exercise improves circulation and strengthens the muscles that support your veins. However, intense workouts in the heat may aggravate varicose veins.

Instead, opt for low-impact, vein-friendly exercises such as:

Swimming (cool and supportive)
Walking in shaded areas
Cycling
Gentle yoga

Even a daily 20-minute walk around your Riverside neighborhood can help reduce vein pressure and keep symptoms at bay.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If your varicose veins are painful, worsening, or accompanied by skin changes or ulcers, it’s time to consult a vascular specialist. These could be signs of chronic venous insufficiency or other complications that need medical attention.

At Mission Surgical, based in Riverside, CA, our expert team provides customized treatments ranging from minimally invasive procedures to laser therapies, helping you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Treatment Options Available in Riverside, CA

If preventive measures are no longer enough, several treatment options are available for persistent or severe varicose veins, including:

Sclerotherapy – Injection-based treatment to close small veins
Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) – Uses laser energy to seal off damaged veins
Vein stripping and ligation – Surgical removal for more advanced cases
Ambulatory phlebectomy – Minimally invasive removal of varicose veins

Discussing these options with a vascular specialist can help you determine the best approach for your condition.

Final Thoughts

While summer can make varicose vein symptoms more noticeable, the good news is that you can take control. With the right preventive measures and support from a trusted medical provider in Riverside, CA, you don’t have to let leg pain or swelling hold you back from enjoying the season.

If you’re dealing with frequent flare-ups or want professional guidance, Mission Surgical is here to help. Our team specializes in compassionate, results-driven vascular care tailored to your individual needs.