Question 1

can compression stockings make varicose veins worse?

Accepted Answer

No: Actually compression stockings (especially the prescription kind) make varicose veins better and can prevent new varicose veins from forming.  This is because the compression drives blood into the deeper veins of the leg while preventing blood from pooling in the veins just under the skin--the varicose veins.

Question 2

what do compression stockings do for varicose veins? in what way do they help?

Accepted Answer

Reduce pressure: Varicose veins are caused by venous valve dysfunction which leads to venous hypertension (elevated pressure in the veins). Compression stockings reduce venous hypertension.

Question 3

can compression stockings get rid of varicose veins?

Accepted Answer

Not likely: Varicose veins are a result of the veins not functioning properly and allowing the blood to pool (venous insufficiency).  Stockings are a recommended treatment for this, but it does not resolve the problem.  It will make your leg feel better, but you need to have the incompetent vein(s) treated to make them go away.

Question 4

can a surgeon remove a blood clot in a varicose vein if it is found by ulrasound testing? what happens besides compression stockings and thinners?

Accepted Answer

Can be: It can be done, and that procedure is called thrombectomy or embolectomy. However, in the veins of the calf or upper legs, blood thinners are more standard of care treatment once diagnosis made.  Compression stockings can help prevent , although best prevention is use of muscles by regular exercise and activity.   Blood thinning prevents clot growth and the body will break it down (fibrinolysis).

Question 5

have varicose veins & saphenous vein valve not working. why worse when using compression stocking or sitting/elevating leg? heaviness, tingling foot.

Accepted Answer

Due to something els: You may have pelvic venous obstruction that would be made worse by support stockings and sitting. You may not be able to elevate you legs high enough without being bed to give relief. A venous ultrasound which usually looks at the legs would not necessarily diagnose your problem. You should consult a physician who specializes in venous diseases.

Question 6

my surgeon recommends compression stockings grade ii for my varicose vains. how much?

Accepted Answer

Compression: Yes, so long as this is directed from your clinician. We need to know that your arteries are okay and then we can determine the correct level of compression. The levels of compression are measured in millimeters of mercury pressure.

Question 7

how do i choose between knee or thigh high supportive stockings for varicose veins?

Accepted Answer

Swelling location: Depending on the location/ extend of the swelling and varicosities. Typically patients using below knee stockings are more compliant than using above knee because they tend not to roll down . After venous ablation procedure , using above knee stockings is better to decrease swelling.

Question 8

47 yr htn 25 yrs reg. medications varicose veins 3 yrs. what leg exercises keeps in control apart from stocking?

Accepted Answer

Stay active: Loosing weight if you are over weight, walking and exercise, wearing compression stockings, and avoiding lifting with the legs help prevent progression of disease.

Question 9

varicose veins, 2 weeks ago had the stripping done to his leg, it swells up once in a while and it hurts to wear the stocking that was given to him.

Accepted Answer

Could be normal: Occasional swelling after vein stripping is not uncommon and generally goes away with time.  Unfortunately, stockings can sometimes be a problem with comfort.   I would recommend that, at the very least, you put in a call to the doctor who did the surgery and let him or her know that you have some concerns.

Question 10

after removing my compression stockings, it seems my veins look even worse. they are dark blue and more towards the surface. is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Not normal: Start with a consult with an Orthopedist.
If there is a delay it would be worthwhile to go to a store well recognized for helping you.
Here in Michigan it is either "Binson" or "Wright Fillipus". They may have similar programs near where you live.

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Doctor answers about:

Can compression stockings make varicose veins worse

A member asked:

Can compression stockings make varicose veins worse?

A member asked:

What do compression stockings do for varicose veins? in what way do they help?

A member asked:

Can compression stockings get rid of varicose veins?

A member asked:

Can a surgeon remove a blood clot in a varicose vein if it is found by ulrasound testing? what happens besides compression stockings and thinners?

A member asked:

Have varicose veins & saphenous vein valve not working. why worse when using compression stocking or sitting/elevating leg? heaviness, tingling foot.

A member asked:

My surgeon recommends compression stockings grade ii for my varicose vains. how much?

A member asked:

How do i choose between knee or thigh high supportive stockings for varicose veins?

A member asked:

47 yr htn 25 yrs reg. medications varicose veins 3 yrs. what leg exercises keeps in control apart from stocking?

A member asked:

Varicose veins, 2 weeks ago had the stripping done to his leg, it swells up once in a while and it hurts to wear the stocking that was given to him.

A member asked:

After removing my compression stockings, it seems my veins look even worse. they are dark blue and more towards the surface. is this normal?

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