Those who walk longer distances (in hot weather) sometimes have to deal with red spots, sometimes itching on their legs. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including a rash or asphalt legs. We list the possible causes and tell you what you can do to prevent it or, if possible, to fix it.
heat buttons
The walk can be strenuous either way, but the conditions get tougher as the temperature outside rises. Then, the body may find it more difficult to regulate temperature. One of the consequences is that the sweat ducts in the legs can become clogged. This causes a red, often itchy rash. In this case, the Red Cross advises seeking shade, resting and cooling your legs with water. If you do not trust it or complaints increase, please contact your doctor. Heat rash can also be caused by friction, such as tight clothing that doesn’t breathe well. Therefore, wear airy and breathable (cotton) clothing.
Asphalt Fire / Asphalt Bones
As the outside air temperature rises, it can also have an effect on the surface you walk on. As is the case with asphalt, for example. Asphalt can get incredibly hot in hot weather. As a result, the skin on the lower legs eventually becomes so hot that it can burn. Which is manifested by red spots. Called asphalt fire or asphalt legs. Unlike sunburn, the burn is not caused by UV radiation, but by radiant heat. A sunscreen therefore does not work against it. Clothing that covers the legs is more effective in this case, because the skin is then protected from the heat. Long, airy pants are very suitable for this.
Read also: Do you often get blisters after walking? Sheep wool can prevent this
Golfer Legs/Hiking Legs
Older walkers may experience irritation of small blood vessels in the legs. Since it also occurs in golfers, it is also known as golfer’s legs or golfer’s vasculitis in addition to walking legs. The red spots then appear due to the pressure exerted on the lower legs, which increases the permeability of the blood vessels. Because the sock creates counter pressure on the skin, the stains often occur just above the edge of the socks. High compression stockings can therefore prevent red spots. Once the red spots appear, it usually takes about 3 days to a week before they disappear again.
Red spots from allergies
Red spots on the legs can also be caused by an allergy. This may be, for example, an allergy to the sun, an allergy to a cleaning product or to certain types of textiles. For example, in the case of socks. If you think the rash in your case is caused by your socks, try socks made of a different type of fabric. Instead of cotton wool or vice versa for example. Always wash the socks before first use and choose a detergent that your skin can tolerate.
Read also: Prevent swollen hands and swollen fingers while walking
You can take these (precautionary) measures against red spots on legs
In addition to the advice of the Red Cross to seek shade, rest and cool the legs with water, there are many other (precautionary) measures you can take to prevent or reduce redness. We list them below:
- Don’t suddenly go for a long walk in the heat, but walk regularly so that your body gets used to it.
- If it is very hot, do not choose paved paths, but look for example in the woods.
- Do not walk during the hottest hours of the day, but rather opt for an extra morning walk or for a time later in the day.
- In warmer conditions it is best to wear long pants so that the lower legs are covered and are less exposed to the heat of the surface you are walking on.
- Choose airy and breathable clothes.
- Drink enough on the way.
- Wear compression stockings if necessary.
- Raise your feet during a break or after walking.
- In addition to cooling with cold water, a cold compress can provide relief.
(Source: Rode Kruis, wandel.nl, bergwijzer.nl, huidinfo.nl, het LoopCentrum, Wandel Magazine. Photo: Shutterstock)