Varicose veins can be itchy and painful and, if left untreated, your large, bulging, and ropey varicose veins can lead to even worse complications.
Although there are medical and surgical treatments for varicose veins, wearing compression socks is a simple, noninvasive way to prevent symptoms and worsening of your varicose veins.
The condition occurs when faulty valves in the veins allow blood that was traveling up to the heart to leak back into the veins, causing blood to pool in the area. Over time, the veins stretch and balloon, which can result in the bluish, ropey veins that usually appear on the lower legs and thighs. Standing or sitting in one position for hours increases your risk for varicose veins and for worsening of existing problems.
Where Compression Stockings Come In
You can help avoid getting varicose veins by not standing for long periods of time, keeping your legs up when you are sitting down, and by wearing supportive socks or hose. Wearing compression stockings or socks aids circulation by helping to prevent blood from pooling in the ankles and calves.
Compression socks can provide mild, moderate, or firm support. Your doctor will recommend which type is best for you. Proper compression socks provide graduated support – that is, offering the most compression at the ankle, and progressively less compression as you go up the calf.
It’s important to put on compression socks before you get up in the morning before your legs become swollen or your veins distend. Put the socks on while you are still in bed and lying down. Putting on your compression socks may seem a bit difficult at the beginning, so talk with your healthcare provider about the best technique to use to get the best and most comfortable fit.
You can keep your support hose on all day long, or for however long you will be standing or sitting in a cramped space. That might be throughout your shift as a cashier, or for the entire duration of a long-distance flight. During waking hours, it’s a good idea to keep your compression socks on as long as you are on your feet or sitting with your feet down, for long periods of time. You can remove your compression socks once you able to get off your feet and elevate your feet in a recliner, or on an ottoman. Of course, remove your compression socks before you go to bed, and keep them off until you get up the next morning.
If you decide to treat your varicose veins, wearing compression socks afterward will help prevent the problem from reoccurring.
At The Vein Institute & MediSpa in Kingwood, Texas, we are skilled in cosmetic body treatments designed to rejuvenate your skin and give you a more youthful appearance. To learn about varicose vein treatments or other aesthetic options, call us today at (281) 312-0208 to request an appointment, or request an appointment online.
