Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins: What They Are, How They Help & Choosing the Right Fit

Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins: What They Are, How They Help & Choosing the Right Fit

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Vein-related diseases are growing increasingly common, and they are currently among the most chronic illnesses in the United States. According to stats, chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) affects between 10% and 35% of individuals in the United States, a disease that can progress to more significant complications such as varicose veins. If you have this chronic condition, you may have noticed typical symptoms like heavy legs and swollen ankles at the end of the day. You may also feel discomfort in your legs or have nighttime cramps.

Compression stockings for varicose veins are commonly recommended for managing varicose veins. These stockings provide graduated pressure to the legs, which helps improve blood flow back to the heart and reduces swelling. This can further help in reducing symptoms such as pain, aching, and heaviness that are often associated with varicose veins. While they do not completely eliminate the condition, varicose veins compression stockings play a vital role in preventing potential complications, such as blood clots.

In this blog, we will provide a detailed breakdown of whether compression stockings really work for varicose veins, and how to choose the right pair based on your needs and condition.

Do Compression Stockings Help to Treat Varicose Veins?

Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins

A varicose vein is a highly visible vein located just below the surface of the skin. Varicose veins occur when blood collects behind the small valves in a person's veins instead of flowing back properly to the heart. They are more common in the legs and feet because blood returning to the heart has to travel farther.

Compression stockings for varicose veins are known to:

  • Reducing their appearance.
  • Relieving painful symptoms in some people.

Healthcare professionals frequently recommend thigh-high compression stockings for varicose veins to improve circulation, prevent varicose veins from worsening and to reduce pain and discomfort.

It is additionally important to note that these stockings are not a cure of varicose veins, It is a primary treatment and preventive measure to avoid further complications of varicose veins.

What are the Benefits of Compression Stocking for Varicose Veins?

Below are some primary benefits of using compression stockings for varicose veins

  1. By providing progressive pressure, compression stockings help blood flow back towards the heart and avoid pooling in the legs, improving blood circulation.
  2. These stockings lessen the sensation of fatigue and heaviness in the legs as well as the pain associated with varicose veins.
  3. Ankle and leg swelling is a common symptom of varicose veins; these compression stockings improve blood flow, which helps to lessen swelling.
  4. If a person already has varicose veins, compression stockings can help stop the problem from becoming worse.

What are the Different Types of Compression Stockings?

Compression stockings are available in a variety of lengths, pressures, and cover different body areas. You can pick knee-length, thigh-high, or even waist-length stockings, depending on your needs and condition. Two popular varieties of compression stockings are as follows:

  1. Graduated Thigh High Compression Stockings: The most popular kind of stockings are graduated compression stockings, which are available in a variety of pressure and tightness. They usually get looser as they move up your leg and tighter around your ankles.
  2. Anti-embolism Thigh High Compression Stockings: These compression stockings are intended to help maintain blood circulation and reduce the risk of severe swelling. They are commonly used after a surgery or when you need to be in bed for an extended period of time. These stockings are recommended for medical purposes, and your doctor may prescribe the one that is best for you.

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Tips for Choosing the Right Pair Of Compression Stocking For Varicose Veins

Picking the right pair of compression stockings may be difficult if it's your first time trying them. You can also take help from your health care provider regarding the type of stocking you will need:

  1. The Right Compression Level

    The compression level you need depends on the purpose of using the compression stockings. Whether you want it for daily use or need it for a specific condition. You will see the label of compression level in mmHg to help you choose the right compression level for your needs.

    • Low compression, which is generally around 20mmHg. This compression level is ideal for daily usage and is easily available at your local pharmacy or online store.
    • Medium compression, which provides graduated pressure of 20-30 mmHg, is helpful for those who have had conditions like DVT or varicose veins. This pressure level helps control pain and swelling.
    • High compression level includes 30-40 mmHg, which is used for severe pain and swelling, and is used by people who have severe pain or blood clots.

  2. Select the Appropriate Size

    Choosing the appropriate pair of compression stockings is key for getting all of the benefits of compression stockings. You should bear in mind that wearing the improper size will not only be ineffective, but it may also worsen conditions such as varicose veins. Here are some simple tips to help you find the right match for yourself:

    • Before getting out of bed, measure your overall and lower legs.
    • For knee-high socks, measure the lowest area of the ankles and the widest section of your calves.
    • For thigh high stockings, start with the same measurement as for knee high socks, then stand up and measure your thighs beneath your buttocks, and then measure the distance across your buttocks and the floor.

  3. Consultation with a Doctor

    If you are looking for medical-grade compression stockings specifically for a certain medical condition, it will be a good idea to consult with your doctor first. Based on your symptoms and requirements, they will determine:

    • The right type of compression stocking for your medical condition.
    • The right level of compression is categorized as light, medium, and firm.
    • Guide you with accurate fit and sizing for optimal comfort and effectiveness.

Who Else Should Use Compression Stockings?

Compression stockings are safe to use for most people. You may have seen your favorite athlete or sports person wearing these stockings. Here are some other individuals who can benefit from using them.

  1. An individual whose job requires prolonged standing or sitting at work.
  2. People who are bedridden or have a hard time moving their legs.
  3. They are at risk of circulation problems like DVT.
  4. Individual recovering from surgery.
  5. Have or are at risk for lymphedema.
  6. An individual who is bedridden and unable to move or has a hard time moving their legs.
  7. Pregnant women and sports persons.

Why Choose SNUG360 Thigh High Compression Stockings

Searching for the best compression stockings for varicose veins? SNUG360 can be your one-stop solution. We offer thigh-high compression stockings for varicose veins that combine function with comfort. Designed for both men and women, these stockings provide medical-grade support, breathable fabric, and a snug fit that helps reduce swelling and fatigue, all while helping to manage varicose veins symptoms effectively.

At SNUG360, we offer a wide range of healthcare and medical support products that are trusted by medical professionals. Whether you need support for recovery or need help with managing a specific condition, just like varicose veins, we have got you covered. Our products aim to improve the individual quality of life by providing the comfort and support they need. For relieving the symptoms of chronic conditions like varicose veins, explore our collection of thigh-high compression stockings now.