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The Effects of Sun Exposure on Veins

With South Florida’s season gearing up soon, you may be pleased with the role that a tan may play in providing “coverage” for your spider veins. Although most patients are aware of the potential health risks involved with sun exposure, it is not as well-known that prolonged sun exposure may increase the development of tiny spider veins around your nose, cheeks and upper chest wall. The good news is that these tiny facial veins are easily treated with non-invasive, in-office treatment. On the other hand, the sun plays no role, whatsoever, in the development of varicose veins, which mainly are caused by heredity, pregnancy and hormonal changes. However, diseased varicose veins may worsen in the heat. In warmer temperatures, the veins dilate and enlarge and become filled with more blood. This filling causes further vein distention, which leads to increased symptoms. Blood is brought closer to the skin to help cool down the body. This increase in blood flow to diseased veins makes varicose veins look larger. Additionally, patients suffering with varicose veins should also avoid some other sources of heat, including hot tubs, prolonged hot baths and heating packs. Due to an increase in symptoms, the summer is when most people suffering with varicose veins think about seeking treatment. However, this time of year is the optimal time to treat veins. With the weather a bit cooler, it is a more comfortable time to wear compression stockings, which are required for a period of treatment following most types of vein treatment. Please call The Kimmel Institute, a South Florida leader in the treatment of varicose and spider veins, to schedule your free vein screening. 561-477-0210 Dr. Richard Kimmel