Originally published September 15, 2020. From our educational archive. Treatment decisions and recovery instructions should be discussed with your own clinician.
Are you in search of a way to prevent varicose veins? Compression stockings could be the end of your search. Varicose veins form from malfunctioning of the one way valves in the veins.
The valves are to prevent backflow of blood and push blood toward the heart, but when they malfunction, it causes blood to accumulate, extending the vein wall, increasing the pressure in the vein, and inability for blood to flow properly. The excess blood in the veins and increased pressure causes leg cramping, engorged veins, and tired legs.
"Compression stockings can help to prevent the blood from pooling in the lower legs, therefore helping to prevent the appearance of the leg vein coming out." - Dr. Edward Mackay
To learn more about sclerotherapy, contact Dr. Mackay at
(727) 527-2888or fill out an
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How Compressions Stockings Work
It should be no surprise that compression stockings are commonly used to treat varicose veins and symptoms that accompany varicose veins and they are also used after recovery from varicose vein procedures, but they can also be used to reduce the chance for developing varicose veins.
They work by squeezing the leg to reduce the pressure in the veins, which in turn improves blood flow. Compression stockings can help with the fatigue in your legs when you wear them throughout the day. Keep in mind that if you have risk factors such as being over weight or obese, family members with varicose veins, you are pregnant, you are a woman, or you perform tasks at work in static positions, that compression stockings may be of best benefit for you.
This doesn’t mean they will completely prevent varicose veins, but they may improve circulation, discomfort, and stave off varicose veins for a period of time.
Dr. Mackay describes when, why and how compression stockings are used to prevent or treat varicose veins from coming out.
To learn more about varicose veins, contact Dr. Mackay at
(727) 527-2888or fill out an
appointment request form.
Types of Compression Stockings
There are many different types of compression stockings available, from length (thigh high or knee high) to the amount of compression. Most over the counter compression stockings have less pressure than those that are prescribed.
- Length
- Amount of Compression
Anyone can purchase compression stockings and it is always best to start with a lower pressure and move to a higher pressure, unless instructed otherwise by your physician or a prescription was given for higher compression stockings. It can be difficult to get used to the tightness in compression stockings, but once you notice the support and reduction in fatigue, they will be a mainstay for your daily wardrobe.
Find out if Stockings are Right for You
Visit with a vascular surgeon for a full leg vein evaluation to determine any underlying disease, the risk that you may have to develop varicose veins, the positive benefits for the use of compression, and the compression pressure that is right for you.
Meet one of Tampa Bay's most trusted vascular surgeons. Dr. Edward Mackay has been helping clients prevent and treat vascular diseases. Click here to learn more about this board certified vascular surgeon.