How to Use Compression Stockings For DVT?

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Do you know how compression therapy helps in DVT management? 

Before discussing the uses and benefits of compression stockings for DVT, let’s first talk about the condition. DVT, or Deep Vein Thrombosis, is a severe disease that occurs when a blood clot develops in the veins deep within the body.

DVT: An Overview

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) happens when blood clots are formed in the deep veins. The clots can develop anywhere in the body, but the lower legs or the thighs are commonly affected by this disease. When a blood clot or a part of it breaks free and travels through the bloodstream and into the lungs, it can obstruct and block the artery. That is why if DVT is left untreated, it can prove to be fatal. 

DVT stockings can help manage the symptoms and even prevent the progression of the condition. Doctors also recommend compression stockings to prevent the condition from occurring in the first place. 

Once you acknowledge the causes and symptoms of DVT, avoiding this fatal venous disorder or DVT management, dealing with other vein-related problems altogether becomes easier. So, here are the symptoms and causes of DVT; we can then discuss the best compression stockings for DVT

DVT-causes-and-symptoms

Causes and Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis

The following symptoms are noticeable, but DVT can occur without any noticeable symptoms as well. 

  1. Swelling and pain in the leg. 
  2. Discoloration or redness on the skin of the leg.
  3. The feeling of warmth in the affected area.
  4. If the leg feels sore or stiff along with the pain.

Causes Of Deep Vein Thrombosis

The venous disease develops due to damaged veins and improper blood flow or clotting. Therefore, the optimum course of action would be to provide the necessary support to the veins and ensure proper blood circulation. But first, let’s look at the factors which can contribute to blood clots. 

  1. Obesity or being overweight.
  2. Smoking increases the risk of DVT.
  3. Genetics or family history of DVT
  4. Prolonged best rest- like paralysis or hospital stay
  5. Pregnancy– it causes a change in blood consistency and increases the pressure on the veins of the legs. 
  6. Being on contraceptive pills can increase the risk of blood clots.
  7. Age could be a factor that increases the chances of DVT.
  8. Cancer or cancer treatments.
  9. Heart diseases increase the risk of DVT and pulmonary embolism, as people with heart failure have limited heart and lung function.
  10. Injury or Surgery

DVT can lead to severe problems, and thus your doctor will suggest DVT compression stockings to manage the condition and decrease symptoms and discomfort. However, if you are not familiar with how compression stockings for DVT will relieve the pain, here is what you need to know.

How do Compression Stockings Work?

Compression stockings are specially designed socks to maintain vein health and reduce the risk of developing any venous disorder. It applies the most substantial pressure around the ankles, and then this pressure gradually reduces going up the leg. This graduated nature of the pressure helps push the blood upwards and back towards the heart. Not only do compression stockings increase blood flow, but they reduce swelling and discomfort as well. Doctors particularly recommend DVT stockings to prevent blood from pooling and clotting. DVT, once treated, can occur again, but using these stockings will reduce the risk of recurrence. If you want to keep your veins healthy, then compression stockings are your best bet. So, one of the primary DVT stockings uses is not only to improve blood circulation but also to reduce pain and swelling. Different compression levels help in DVT management depending on the severity of the condition. 

How To Choose DVT Stockings?

Compression stockings are available in varying levels or grades of pressure: class 1 and class 2. In addition, your doctor might suggest a compression level depending on the symptoms and severity of your condition. 

Compression stockings for DVT come in two lengths- below-knee length and thigh length. Again, your doctor can prescribe the type of compression stockings based on the location of the affected area.

One of the most important things to consider while choosing compression stockings is the size. Wearing the correct size is paramount to receiving the proper compression. Wearing a larger size will prevent you from getting the maximum benefit from the stockings. Conversely, wearing a smaller size can result in obstructing your blood circulation even more, making your condition worse!

To find the correct size, you will need your leg measurements. First, refer to the measuring instructions given here. Once you have your measurements, you can select the correct size based on the size chart of the particular product you would like to buy. If you need help with measurements and sizing, contact us at NovoMedshop. 

How to Use Compression Stockings?

Once you decide on the length, size, and types of compression socks, let us focus on how and when to wear them correctly. 

We recommend that you put on the compression stockings first thing in the morning. Because when you move around during the day, it can cause swelling, making it challenging to put them on later. So, for optimal results, wear the socks in the morning itself.

You may use compression stockings for DVT comfortably all day long and remove them before sleeping. We also suggest that you apply some moisturizer on your skin after taking off the stockings at night. 

Since compression stockings are tight and squeeze your leg throughout the day, they can dry your skin out and cause itching. Applying a moisturizer every night keeps your skin hydrated and minimizes itching.    

But be careful! Do not use moisturizer before wearing the stockings. It will make your skin sticky and therefore make it harder for your stockings to glide on! In addition, the conditioners present in the moisturizer can even break down the elastic fibers in the stockings and shorten their life span.   

How to Care for Your DVT Compression Stockings?

How-to-wash-compression-garments

Compression socks for DVT can be expensive, so you want them to last for as long as possible. The basic rule is to wash your compression socks after each use. Firstly, continuously wearing it for hours can create bacteria and odor. Cleaning them daily will ensure cleanliness and hygiene. Secondly, because the material’s nature is elastic, it stretches to take the form of your leg. Washing the garment brings it back to its original shape and ensures that correct compression is maintained.

We recommend hand washing your compression stockings in room-temperature water with a mild detergent free of fabric softeners and harsh chemicals. Place them on a flat surface under a fan (not in the sun) to dry. Do not hang on a clothesline. Avoid using any heat, such as ironing or blow-drying.  

Where to Buy Compression Stockings From?

To buy the best quality compression stockings for DVT, you can visit novomedshop.com, as they have the finest quality and are in line with authorized importers and distributors of Sigvaris Compression stockings. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Wear Compression Stockings If You Have DVT?

Yes, your doctor will prescribe graduated compression stockings to help ease the pain, discomfort, and swelling associated with DVT. In addition, it will help prevent the disease from progressing and developing other serious complications. 

How Long Do I Need To Wear Compression Stockings After DVT?

Your doctor would be the best guide in this case, as it would depend on your personal medical history and other factors. Usually, patients with acute DVT of the leg should use compression stockings at least for a few months to prevent the occurrence of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). Also, getting accustomed to the regular usage of compression stockings is a great way to keep your veins healthy.

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