Now that winter is winding down, it’s easy to get lost in thoughts of a long-awaiting tropical vacation. Sandy beaches. Toasty temperatures. And maybe a pina colada.

Unfortunately, some of us get an unpleasant introduction to summer when we try on the swimsuit only to discover that a new varicose vein has decided to make an appearance. There it is, bulging for the world to see. There’s no easier way to ruin the mood than to think of everyone seeing those veins while you enjoy the sun in your swimsuit.

The good news is that varicose veins can be treated. And now is a good time to come in and have them looked at before summer. You can also keep them from getting worse with compression stockings. The concept is fairly simple: Strong elastic stockings apply pressure to your leg muscles, easing venous pooling. When your legs are in motion, that mild pumping action — aided by the pressure hosiery — enables blood to flow away from the legs, where clots may form.

Compression hosiery gently squeezes the muscles, even while a person is sitting, as well as when moving about. To reduce the pain, swelling, and discomfort of varicose veins, a doctor may recommend that the patient wear stockings that extend from foot to thigh.

Compression socks may work for some milder cases of varicose veins, but sometimes a more aggressive treatment may be required. The best idea is consult with a doctor. So if you have a vacation coming up during the months ahead, and are worried about unsightly varicose veins, give us a call and we’ll see what we can do.