A vascular specialist at a Solihull vein clinic is warning that heatwaves this summer could worsen symptoms of varicose veins.
Warmer weather causes blood vessels to dilate, which can increase pressure in the legs and lead to symptoms such as swelling, heaviness, aching and visible veins becoming more pronounced.
Martin Claridge, Director and Consultant Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon at Premier Veins, at Broad Oaks Health Clinic at 394, Warwick Road, said: “As a nation we love it when the sun shines, but the sun’s rays can also bring discomfort for many.
“Heat has a direct effect on circulation in the lower limbs, when temperatures rise, the veins expand, which can make it harder for blood to return efficiently from the legs to the heart. For people with existing vein weakness, this can significantly worsen symptoms.
“People often notice their symptoms for the first time during hotter weather, when their legs feel heavier, more swollen, or more uncomfortable than usual. In many cases, the underlying vein issue has been present for some time, but heat simply makes it more obvious.
“It’s not uncommon for patients to come in after a spell of warm weather saying they suddenly became aware of aching, tightness, or visible veins that they hadn’t previously paid attention to. While this is often manageable, it can be a sign of an underlying problem that may gradually progress if ignored.”
Premier Veins is dedicated to transforming vein health and restoring confidence. Its expert team, with a strong foundation in the NHS and research, established Premier Veins in 2012 to deliver a superior level of personalised attention.
Its experienced consultant vascular surgeons offer advanced, minimally invasive treatments that can help people regain confidence in their appearance.
Martin added: “There are some simple preventative measures during hot weather that people can take, including staying active, avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting, elevating the legs when resting and the all important, staying hydrated.”
Martin qualified from University College London Medical School. He trained exclusively in specialist vascular and endovascular surgery in Birmingham and Australia and has a doctorate in vascular research from Birmingham University.
In 2011, Martin was appointed as a Consultant Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon at University Hospitals Birmingham and was Clinical Director from 2015 to 2024. He lectures internationally and trains colleagues all over the world in keyhole treatments for varicose veins.
Premier Veins has received the Best for Varicose Vein Treatments – UK award by Global 100 for four consecutive years.
For more information on Premier Veins and its award-winning services, or to book a consultation, please visit www.premierveins.uk.