Swollen veins and legs in hot environments
Swollen legs: why it happens and how compression can help
The problem of swollen legs is common. It is more frequent in old age, in people who are overweight, during pregnancy, or in those suffering from vein problems.
When sitting or standing for many hours, the calf muscle pump that carries blood from the legs to the heart through the venous system no longer functions correctly. The blood stagnates in the veins, causing fluid to leak into the surrounding tissues, and the legs swell up.
Insufficient blood return also occurs when vessels dilate, for example in excessively hot environments or rooms with underfloor heating, and especially in the summer months. Swelling mostly begins at the ankles, the lowest point of the superficial great saphenous vein.
However, those suffering from swollen legs should be examined by a specialist to understand if a serious venous disease is hiding behind the symptoms. The doctor can visualize the blood flow in the veins using ultrasound (Doppler ultrasound) and determine whether the superficial or deep blood vessel system of the leg is damaged.
“Venous diseases must always be treated. There are various treatment methods, even for advanced clinical conditions. Among the most important, in terms of prevention, is compression therapy. When used regularly, compression garments contribute to the prevention of the disease or arrest its progression. Compression stockings form the basis of vein treatment. It is no coincidence that if the disease progresses, the patient may develop edema, thrombosis, or leg ulcers.”
Compression hosiery is therefore a means of preventing the progression of venous insufficiency. Its defined pressure mechanically counteracts the incomplete closure of the venous valves. By reducing the diameter of the leg veins, the valves can close again and the blood does not stagnate. Furthermore, these garments stimulate lymphatic circulation and prevent fluid stasis in the legs.
The most modern compression stockings are indistinguishable from other types of hosiery. Fine-ribbed knee-highs, stay-ups, or sheer tights: from a fashion perspective, there are no limits for compression stockings.
Even after surgery, for example after a cesarean section, it is necessary to wear anti-embolism stockings. Subsequently, one can regularly use the compression stockings prescribed by the doctor.
