What Are Compression Stockings?
Compression stockings are worn for many different reasons including varicose veins, spider veins, edema, orthostatic hypotension and venous insufficiency. These tightly fitted socks gently squeeze your legs to promote blood flow from the legs back toward the heart. Thigh or waist-high stockings help reduce pooling of blood in the legs that is common to patients suffering from vein disease. A few benefits of regular use include prevention of edema, symptom control with varicose veins and treatment of venous ulcers.
Compression Stockings and Varicose Veins
Varicose veins appear when the one-way valves in your veins fail and allow blood to leak backward. As a result, blood pools in the lower legs and dilates the veins to cause venous insufficiency. Compression stockings provide support around the superficial veins and enable the blood to flow more effectively back towards the heart. Compression stockings are graded to provide maximal pressure around the ankles and less as they go up the leg.
One Size Doesn't Fit All
Besides being difficult to put on, another common complaint is how over the course of the day they can be uncomfortable, especially during hotter weather. For this reason, it is just as important to choose your stocking carefully. There are numerous types of compression stockings based on material, size, compression, open or closed-toe and even zippers/velcro. Your varicose vein specialist center in Paramus can assist with finding the right compression and fit for long term comfort.
What Compression Stockings Don't Do?
Compression stockings are not a cure for varicose veins, but do help alleviate symptoms in a large percentage of patients. However, there isn't sufficient evidence to suggest that they're an effective treatment on their own. And yet, it is an important component for insurance coverage and should be attempted before more definitive treatments like vein ablation or venaseal. Symptomatic varicose veins can be debilitating and in some instances can lead to important health consequences related to circulation. Patients suffering from vein disease are encouraged to seek early evaluation and monitor for any new changes including skin discoloration, bleeding, phlebitis, swelling , or ulceration. Compression stockings are an effective means to control symptoms of varicose veins. With proper selection, wearing compression stockings doesn't have to be uncomfortable. If symptoms or signs of vein disease persist, it is recommended to seek more personal attention with a vein treatment specialist.
For more information about Vein Treatment, visit the Spider Vein and Varicose Vein Specialist Centers for specialty care.
article source: https://patch.com/new-jersey/paramus/guide-sheet-compression-stockings-nodx