If you are starting to develop varicose veins, you may be wondering if compression stockings are a solution for you. Whether you already show symptoms of varicose veins, or are just concerned about possible development of varicose veins as you age or go through a pregnancy, there are several things you should know about how and why you should wear compression stockings.
Compression Stockings Are Considered Safe to Wear During Pregnancy
Many women first experience varicose veins during pregnancy. This is because of the extra weight they gain, a larger amount of blood being circulated through the body, and various pregnancy hormones. Unfortunately, it is not generally considered safe to treat varicose veins while you are pregnant, but you can reduce your symptoms by wearing compression stockings, getting a proper amount of exercise, and elevating your legs when you are resting.
You may be concerned that compression stockings will reduce circulation, limiting blood flow to your fetus. However, compression stockings can actually help increase circulation by directing blood to the internal veins as opposed to allowing it to pool in surface level veins. Of course, it is important to consult with a doctor to select the correct pressure and size of compression stockings for you.
Compression Stockings Should Be Worn As Much As Possible Following Treatment for Varicose Veins
While traditional treatments for varicose veins removed the entire vein, modern treatments focus on collapsing the vein and allowing the body to reabsorb it. Since the vein is still in your leg, it may take a few weeks for it to fully disappear, and during that period you should wear compression stockings as often as possible. Wearing compression stockings after treatment prevents the veins from expanding and filling with blood again, which will allow your body to reabsorb the vein more quickly.
Even after your veins have disappeared, you may want to continue wearing compression stockings as it is possible to experience varicose veins multiple times throughout your life.
Compression Stockings May Be Worn in the Shower
For the first couple days or even a week after your treatment, your doctor may suggest that you wear your compression stockings 24-hours a day to prevent pooling and reduce the risk of blood clots. You can wear compressing stockings while sleeping and even while showering.
When showering with compression stockings, you should be careful to make sure you rinse all of the soap from the stockings. When you get out of the water, you can use your blow dryer on its cool setting to quickly dry the stockings to prevent discomfort and mildew.
Compression Stockings Are Not a Substitute for Exercise
Although compression stockings can reduce the pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins, they are not a substitution for exercise, which can help prevent the formation of varicose veins. Walking 30 minutes each day is the most recommended exercise for varicose veins, as it improves your circulation without stressing your joints. If you have varicose veins, you should stick with light aerobic activity that encourages blood flow and limit exercises that restrict blood flow, such yoga with long pauses in each posture or weightlifting.
A Proper Fit Is Essential to the Effectiveness of Compression Stockings
Compression stockings are sold in various sizes and pressures. Lighter pressures may be adequate at preventing varicose veins while higher pressures are generally used to relieve pain associated with already formed varicose veins. Your doctor will be able to tell you the correct pressure for your situation, and should help measure you for a proper fit. It is important that you get the size and fit that your doctor recommends as this will promote ideal blood circulation for you.
Compression stockings, together with professional treatment at a place like Vein Clinic Of Las Vegas, can help reduce varicose veins, allowing you to live a healthy, comfortable life.
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