Have you noticed blue or purple, swollen, and twisted veins on your skin, particularly on your lower legs, and you’re concerned they may be varicose veins? Well, fret not! Compression therapy can help manage the symptoms and prevent the appearance of these unsightly veins.
However, if you have never come across these compression garments and are unsure how to use them, we’re here to put you through them. We’ve put together everything about compression therapy for varicose veins in this article.
First, what is compression therapy?
Compression therapy is a great way to alleviate varicose veins symptoms like soreness, swelling, and fatigue. Compression therapy is wearing elastic stockings or wraps to exert a certain amount of pressure in a particular area to improve blood circulation and support your veins.
Compression stockings are worn to prevent blood pooling and fluid build-up in the legs, ankles, and feet. Thus, it helps to minimize the swelling and pain brought on by varicose veins. For this therapy, doctors utilize compression stockings of varying levels based on the severity of the condition.
Which Type of Compression Stocking Type is Best for Me?
The proper stocking type and appropriate pressure levels depend on various factors, such as the type and length of the stockings and the cause of the patient’s varicose vein worry. The following are the primary stocking types:
- Prescription compression stockings
These exert the most pressure on your legs and are often fitted by a doctor. This ensures that they effectively promote excellent circulation and are not overly tight.
- Compression socks and stockings
It applies a particular pressure level that can ease your symptoms a little.
- Support pantyhose
This one provides a little pressure but is the least restrictive stocking on this list.
What’s the best time to wear compression stockings?
Doctors recommend wearing compression stockings during the day, especially before you get out of bed and lower your legs, to encourage healthy blood circulation throughout the day. Also, it’s advisable to wear compression stockings during the night while also placing your feet in an elevated position to enhance proper blood flow.
How do I choose the right compression level?
Always see your doctor for guidance on the appropriate compression level. The following are the four primary compression levels:
- Mild compression of 8 to 15 mmHg
This is appropriate if you have mild chronic venous insufficiency, as it promotes normal blood flow to your legs and leaves you feeling light.
- Moderate compression of 15 to 20 mmHg
This is significantly more effective than the mild levels and is ideal for people with varicose or spider veins.
- Firm and extra-firm compression
These are recommended for more severe varicose vein treatment such as deep vein thrombosis, lymphatic edema, and leg ulcers.
- Firm stockings of 20 to 30 mmHg.
- Extra-firm ones of 30 to 40 mmHg.
- Rx stockings of 40 to 50 mmHg.
Keep in mind that high-level compression stockings require a doctor’s prescription.
Risks of compression stockings
Compression stocking use comes with some adverse side effects, such as:
- Discomfort or pain.
- Skin irritation.
- Broken skin.
- Swelling of the lower foot and toe area.
Conclusion
Compression therapy cannot completely cure varicose vein problems. Still, it can help you manage your symptoms by improving blood circulation in your lower body. Thus, enhancing your quality of life. If you discover that you risk developing varicose veins, you must discuss using compression stockings with your vascular surgeon.
Home of leading Gold Coast vascular surgeon, Dr. Venu Bhamidi. Arrange for an appointment at his vein clinic today.