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Compression Socks For Varicose Veins? 3 Things You May Want To Know

10 August 2015 by Joann Dunn

If you're starting to develop varicose veins on your legs and want to stop them from worsening, your doctor might recommend wearing compression stockings (also called compression socks). Compression stockings are special socks used to treat a variety of different conditions. Wearing them might help you find relief from your veins, and they might stop the veins from getting worse. Here are three things you may be wondering about compression stockings. 

What are they?

Compression socks are typically socks that are long enough to cover your feet and extend to your knees. They can be made of a variety of different materials, including nylon, microfiber, spandex, and cotton. They are made to fit snugly on your legs, and you may need a prescription to buy certain types of them.

If your doctor recommends them, you may need to try out several different types in order to find a pair that fit you right and that are comfortable enough for you to wear.

What are they used for?

In addition to treating varicose veins, people also use compression stockings to treat:

• Diabetes
• Lymphedema
• Tired, sore legs
• Swelling from pregnancy

Compression socks are primarily designed for treating any type of problem that involves the veins in the legs. They can be helpful; however, they can also be uncomfortable and expensive.

How do they help with varicose veins?

When you have varicose veins, wearing compression socks can be helpful because of the way they add pressure to the legs. The socks are tight when you wear them, and they actually squeeze your legs. The result of this is a reduction in the pressure in your veins, and this offers relief and prevention of veins. Another result is an improvement in the circulation of your blood flow.

It can be hard to get used to wearing compression socks, which is why some people begin wearing regular pantyhose first. These offer similar effects, yet they are not as tight in most cases. You can talk to your doctor to find out what type of compression socks you should purchase and how often you should wear them.

You should realize that compression socks will wear out. Over time, they tend to lose elasticity, which prevents them from working properly.

If you try using compression socks and are still having problems with your varicose veins, you may want to discuss this issue with your doctor. There is a variety of treatment options available for treating veins (such as an outlet like Carolina Vein Institute), and you can find out what type would be best for you.

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