Why You Should Use Compression Socks for Varicose Veins
18 Jan 2021
Varicose veins or Varicosities is a condition when veins enlarge, stretch and turn bluish-purple or red. The condition is very common in women. A staggering 25% of adults have varicose veins which generally appear in the lower legs and feet. At times it is more a cosmetic problem but can also be very painful and uncomfortable in several instances.
Causes of Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are caused due to a condition called venous insufficiency. The function of our heart is to pump blood throughout our bodies with the help of a system of veins and arteries. Arteries transport fresh blood to different parts of the body while veins bring it back to the heart. Veins also have minute valves which stops blood from flowing back in them. Valves that do not work properly cause venous insufficiency which makes blood to pool and collect in the veins. This abnormality makes them bulge outwardly mostly in legs and where it is difficult for the weak valves to fight the gravitational force.
Symptoms of Varicose Veins
Around 40% of the population in the United States suffer from chronic vein related problems. If you have chronic venous insufficiency you may experience heavy swollen legs, and swollen ankles at the end of the day. Valves which are damaged get twisted into rope-like veins of bluish or purple colour which are visible from underneath your skin.
How Do Compression Socks Work?
The best way to relieve symptoms of varicose veins is by improving circulation which can be done with the help of compression socks. It is a challenge for the blood in the veins to flow back to the heart as it must work against gravity. Problems like lack of movement, circulatory complications or pooling in the veins of the lower legs or feet which leads to swelling of legs and aches and fatigue are signs of a venous clot. Compression socks help as they press the leg tissues and walls of the veins and help blood in the veins to flow back to the heart. These socks force blood to move back towards the heart and improve circulation in your legs.
The fluid called lymph which helps bath the cells in the legs also get in motion with the help of compression socks. Once the flow of lymph is triggered it helps in reducing the tissue swelling. Compression socks and stockings not only help increase circulation but also help prevent the formation of blood clots in lower legs. Arterial pressure is increased which causes more blood to flow to the heart and less blood to pool.
There are 3 main levels of compression you can choose from in compression socks.
1. Mild Compression. This helps people with mild chronic venous insufficiency by supporting their veins with healthy blood flow so that their legs feel lighter.
2. Moderate Compression. This helps once you start experiencing the symptoms of spider or varicose veins.
3. Firm and Extra Firm Compression. This level of compression is suggested by a physician who sees a serious case of venous disorder or when the person is suffering from leg ulcers, lymphatic oedema and deep vein thrombosis.
It is always advised to talk to a doctor to help you choose the right compression level.
Who Should Use Compression Socks?
Compression socks benefit people with blood clots in their legs or those who are at the risk of these clots, like people who are on prolonged bed rest, who sit for an extended period, use birth control pills or hormone pills, pregnant women, and people with genetic disorders. Compression socks are best for people who have circulatory problems and for those who spend a lot of time on their feet.
What are Copper-Infused Compression Socks & How do They Help?
Copper compression socks have extra advantages over regular compression socks as they have antimicrobial properties and healing properties of copper. They look and feel like regular compression socks except that they are made with copper infused fabric, making them more durable and long lasting compared to other compression socks.
Copper-infused compression socks not only stimulate thermal regulation to heal sore muscles and reduce swelling, but they also fight bacteria which causes infection. In addition, copper compression socks are anti-microbial and so, they prevent odour. They are the perfect solution of several leg and feet related problems and are a good investment for people who travel a lot, who are on their feet a lot, who are diabetic, or people who tend to have leg and feet problems.
Be healthy,
Andrew
Andrew Hoffman
Andrew Hoffman is a freelance writer and journalist from Los Angeles, CA, who has written on behalf of a range of clients including the Livestrong Network and Demand Media. In addition to writing about a range of topics, he enjoys playing basketball and cooking in his spare time.
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I wear compression socks at work (medical worker) and they 100% do make a difference on how your legs feel after being on your feet all day!