Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) affects millions of people, leading to persistent symptoms such as leg swelling, aching, heaviness, and fatigue. While CVI can be a year-round concern, many people notice their discomfort intensifying during the warmer months. If you’ve noticed more discomfort in the summer, you’re not imagining things. Baton Rouge’s high heat and humidity during the summer months can, in fact, aggravate CVI symptoms.

What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a long-term condition in which the veins in your legs struggle to circulate blood efficiently back to the heart. Normally, valves within the veins ensure that blood flows upward, against gravity. However, when these valves become weakened or damaged, blood can begin to flow backward and pool in the lower extremities, a process known as venous reflux.

This pooling of blood increases pressure within the veins, leading to a range of symptoms that can affect daily life. Common signs of CVI include:

• Leg swelling (edema), especially after standing or sitting for long periods
• Aching, cramping, or throbbing pain in the legs
• A feeling of heaviness or fatigue that worsens throughout the day
• Skin discoloration or texture changes, and in advanced stages, venous ulcers

How Does Heat and Humidity Affect Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

As temperatures rise, your body activates several mechanisms to regulate internal temperature and prevent overheating. One of the most significant responses is vasodilation—the widening of blood vessels, particularly near the skin’s surface. This process helps release heat by increasing blood flow to the skin, allowing heat to dissipate. While this is essential for thermoregulation, it can pose challenges for individuals with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).

For those with CVI, already-weakened vein valves struggle even more when veins are dilated. The widened vessels make it easier for blood to pool in the legs instead of flowing efficiently back toward the heart. This can exacerbate key CVI symptoms especially at the end of the day or after prolonged standing.

Humidity compounds the problem. When the air is saturated with moisture, sweat evaporates more slowly. This reduces your body’s ability to cool itself efficiently, increasing overall fluid retention. As a result, the circulatory system is placed under greater stress, and the additional fluid accumulation in the legs can further intensify CVI symptoms.

Common CVI Symptoms That Worsen During Summer

Warm weather can act as a trigger for flare-ups. CVI symptoms that worsen with heat and humidity include:

• Increased leg swelling
• Heavier, more fatigued legs
• Cramping or throbbing pain
• More visible varicose veins

Some people also report itching or skin irritation, particularly if they’re wearing tight or non-breathable clothing during the summer months.

Ways to Reduce CVI Discomfort During Baton Rouge’s Summer Months

You can’t control the weather, but you can control how you respond to it. Here are several effective strategies to manage your CVI symptoms in the heat:

• Wear breathable compression stockings – Look for lightweight, summer-friendly fabrics that promote airflow while maintaining pressure.
• Stay cool – Use fans or air conditioning when indoors. Cool showers can help reduce leg swelling.
• Elevate your legs – Especially after long periods of sitting or standing. This helps improve venous return.
• Stay hydrated – Proper hydration helps maintain blood flow and reduces the risk of fluid retention.
• Exercise regularly – Low-impact exercises like walking or swimming keep blood moving and reduce venous pressure.
• Avoid prolonged standing – If your job requires it, take short breaks to sit and elevate your legs throughout the day.

While heat and humidity are well-known triggers for chronic venous insufficiency symptoms, they don’t have to define your summer experience. With the right care and management strategies, you can stay active and comfortable—even in warmer weather. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen despite self-care efforts, it may be time to seek professional guidance.

The board-certified vascular surgeons at CVT specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of vascular conditions, including chronic venous insufficiency. With advanced treatment options and personalized care plans, they can help you regain control of your symptoms and significantly improve your quality of life. Take the first step toward relief and schedule your consultation with CVT today.