The doctor explains how some habits can help fight swelling in the legs
When we don’t take care of our health, hot days become a time of alert for the body, especially for those suffering from cardiovascular problems. This is because, according to data from the Brazilian Society of Angiology and Vascular Surgery, Rio de Janeiro section (SBACV-RJ), high temperatures can increase the risk of vascular, or venous, diseases of the lower limbs by between 20 and 30%. .
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The numbers also indicate that, normally, the problem is related to varicose veins. Therefore, Dr. Caio Focássio, vascular surgeon, explains why this condition occurs and how to take care of your health to avoid problems during hot flashes.
How heat affects blood vessels
On hot days, the heat generates a phenomenon called vasodilation, which delays the return of blood pressure. blood circulation from the lower limbs to the heart. This is one of the causes of swelling in the legs and feet, typical of this time of year.
Swellings may not have any associated problems, but they may also represent diseases such as varicose veins, thrombosis, or lymphatic edema. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist if the swelling goes beyond normal.
“The reason why high temperatures worsen venous diseases is because the heat causes vasodilation, that is, the dilation of the blood vessels, with an overload of the veins of the lower limbs. So people with previous vascular diseases tend to get worse in the summer, while others may experience edema, leg pain, tiredness, heaviness, cramps, dry skin and itching, which are intensified by heat”, explains the surgeon.
Dr. Caio Focássio also states that heat increases the thickness of the blood, increasing pressure and heart rate. The possibility of contracting the disease is even greater for those who already have high cholesterol, are diabetic, hypertensive or obese.
Influence of dehydration
Summer dehydration can have serious effects on the patient cardiovascular disease or peripheral vascular, related to loss of consciousness, fainting, and drop in blood pressure. Therefore, the doctor’s most important recommendation is to consume 2 to 3 liters of water per day.
“Furthermore, it is advisable to avoid direct exposure to the sun for long periods, to consume light meals, which require less effort from the body during digestion, and to avoid the abuse of salt, which absorbs a lot of liquids and can contribute to swelling of the lower and upper limbs”, warns the specialist.
Tips to avoid leg swelling on hot days
- Standing: For those who work sitting it is advisable to get up every hour. Those who work standing must be careful: the use of elastic stockings for those who have no contraindications is a good measure;
- Move: train regularly – walkcycling or running – which stimulate the return of blood;
- Raise your feet: At home, relax and raise your feet, for example with a pillow. In this way, venous return is facilitated, reducing swelling;
- Drink water: daily water consumption helps kidney function and, therefore, can also reduce swelling;
- Check the scale: Maintaining weight reduces the risk of varicose veins. Furthermore, being fit reduces the symptoms of leg swelling.
By Mayra Barreto
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
