Submitted by Drs. Bohn, Nielsen, Castillo, Grieco, and Couture, The Vein Specialists, LLC
Ah, December — the month of sparkly lights, cozy socks, and the delightful excuse to eat cookies before noon. While the holiday season invites plenty of cheer, it’s also a good time to check in on something a little less jolly: your veins.
Yes, we’re talking about varicose veins — those twisty, bulging lines that can sometimes sneak up on you like an uninvited relative at Christmas dinner. The good news? You don’t have to let them steal your holiday sparkle.
What’s Really Going On Beneath the Wrapping Paper
Think of your veins as a network of little roadways carrying blood back to your heart. Along those roads are tiny valves that keep traffic flowing one way. When those valves weaken or get damaged, blood can start to pool, causing veins to stretch and twist. That’s when varicose veins make their grand (and usually unwanted) appearance. They’re incredibly common — especially among people who stand a lot, sit for long periods, or have a family history of vein issues. Age and pregnancy can also play a part. But no matter the cause, December can be a sneaky time for veins to act up.
Why December Is a Sneaky Time for Vein Trouble
It’s easy to think of varicose veins as a summer problem. After all, that’s when we notice them more. But December can quietly make things worse. Cold weather often makes it easier to skip exercise, makes us move less, and can also make circulation sluggish. Between holiday shopping, sitting for hours while traveling, wrapping presents on the floor, and indulging in salty snacks, your veins might be working overtime. In addition, the stress of the season can exacerbate existing vein problems by increasing blood pressure and contributing to weight gain.
Keeping Your Legs Merry and Bright
There are plenty of ways to keep your veins happy this holiday season — and most of them fit right into your December routine.
- Deck the Halls… and Take a Walk.
Whether you’re admiring the neighborhood light displays or doing laps around the mall, walking gets your calf muscles pumping and helps blood flow.
- Put Your Feet Up
After a long day, kick back — literally. Propping your legs up on a pillow (above the level of your heart) or the arm of the couch helps drain pooled blood and gives your veins a rest.
- Get Cozy with Compression
Compression stockings gently support your veins and encourage healthy circulation. They use an artificial elastic to gently squeeze your legs and push the blood from the legs back up to the heart. Thigh-high 20-30 mm Hg graduated compression stockings are the most effective. They’ve come a long way from the medical-looking versions of the past. Some of today’s versions come in fun colors and festive patterns.
- Snack Smartly
Salty foods can lead to fluid retention, which adds pressure to your veins. Enjoy the holiday treats, but balance them with fruits, veggies, and water.
- Know When to See a Specialist
If your legs ache, swell, or feel heavy — or if your veins look more prominent — you should schedule a check-up with a vein specialist. Vein specialists have the training and technology to accurately diagnose vein conditions and recommend the most effective treatment options. Varicose veins can sometimes indicate underlying circulation issues, so getting an accurate diagnosis early can help prevent complications. In most cases, you don’t need a referral to see a vein specialist. The treatment and evaluation are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare. Modern vein treatments are quick, minimally invasive, with little downtime, so you won’t miss out on any holiday gatherings.
December is full of reasons to celebrate — and your legs deserve to feel just as festive as the rest of you. With a few mindful habits and some self-care, you can keep your veins healthy and your holidays bright.
If you suspect you have varicose veins, schedule an evaluation at the ONLY FULL-TIME Vein Clinic in downstate Illinois. During your initial consultation, one of their doctors will determine the underlying cause of your leg discomfort, explain your treatment options, and then guide you through every step of your procedure and recovery. Call The Vein Specialists at (309) 862-4000 or visit them online at www.ILveins.com. They have convenient locations at 3302 Gerig Drive in Bloomington or 2011 Rock Street, Suite C in Peru.
Quick Tips for Happy Legs This Winter
- Stretch hourly when sitting for long periods — even a quick calf raise helps.
- Swap heels for comfy flats when you can; your veins prefer lower pressure.
- Stay hydrated — yes, even in cold weather! Dehydration thickens your blood slightly, which can slow circulation.
- Keep it cozy, not tight: Avoid restrictive leggings or socks that dig into your calves.