Human limbs, arms and legs, are the most mobile parts of the body. They are constantly under pressure. Above all, our legs bear the load, the weight of our body. In addition, they are constantly upright. In this position, and under a certain weight, the blood flow increases, at the same time that the pressure on the walls of the blood vessels increases.
And if we consider that due to harmful environmental factors, our malnutrition, overweight, the elasticity of blood vessels decreases, it is clear that this leads to their stretching. nodes are formed. And then the first signs of varicose veins appear - the so-called asterisks on the skin, heaviness and swelling of the legs. The next stage is already a specific disease - protruding nodes, veins. All this is accompanied by painful sensations.
Anti-varicose stockings: types
In order to cure varicose veins, you need to radically change your lifestyle, review your diet and pay enough attention to the problem of stress. And, of course, consider wearing compression and anti-varicose knitwear.
The products it contains can be divided into the following types:
- tights - the most comfortable look, but when dressing it requires some effort;
- stockings - recommended for pregnant women and for those whose veins above the knee are not affected;
- golfs - very comfortable to wear for men;
- leggings - recommended for those whose varicose veins affect a small part of the legs;
- elastic bandage - it is the most affordable type, but the disadvantage is the inconvenience of its use.
It is worth noting the fact that such items of orthopedic medical clothing are recommended to be worn after surgery. Attention! After the operation, you should not wear stockings, they must be selected by a specialist.
What are anti-varicose compression stockings and tights?
Specialized orthopedic compression products are made from compression stockings. Its purpose is strictly medical. This type of clothing supports the blood vessels and prevents them from stretching, improves microcirculation. According to the conclusions of the attending physicians, such stockings are today a fairly effective method of combating the disease, as well as preventing it.
An additional advantage of such compression tights or stockings is the prevention of blood clots. Compression jersey products are made of a material that is porous and viscous in its structure, which provides a breathable effect in hot weather. In such products, materials with increased property of evaporation and preservation of the water balance of the skin are used.
Compression stockings: impact characteristics
A feature of the action of such stockings is that they create an additional frame that supports the veins and protects them from stretching. Also, compression of the lower leg tissues protects our legs from fatigue, muscle pain and swelling, and prevents blood from pooling.
The pressure in compression stockings is distributed from bottom to top as follows:
- on the ankles - the maximum, that is, up to 100%;
- kneeling - reduced to 70-75%;
- on the hips - about 50%;
- in the groin - up to 20%;
- there is no pressure on the hips and abdomen.
Thus, the rate of blood outflow from the leg veins increases.
Varicose compression stockings are preventive and therapeutic. Having decided to buy anti-varicose stockings or stockings, decide what you need them for: for prevention during pregnancy and after childbirth, for the treatment of varicose veins. Condoms can be selected in pharmacies according to their size. They do not need a certificate.
The situation is quite different with medical treatment. It is more difficult to choose them. For them there must be a medical certificate and the doctor must select them for you according to your parameters and the stage of the disease. The phlebologist will assess the stage of the disease, the condition of the veins based on ultrasound data. The size should be selected very carefully, since tights almost do not stretch. Too large will not be effective, and a small size is inconvenient, uncomfortable.
If you have been diagnosed with an illness, but you do not have the opportunity to seek a doctor's advice on the purchase of compression stockings, first buy prophylactic stockings, and only then be guided by your feelings and the body's reaction to one or another type or size.
According to the international standard, there are 4 classes of compression stockings.
- The first compression class is 18 to 22 mm Hg. Art. - with the initial degree of damage to the superficial veins, the appearance of spider veins. Such stockings significantly reduce pain at the end of the working day and relieve swelling.
- The second compression class is 23-32 mmHg. Art. - damage to the deep veins. In addition to pain and swelling, night cramps appear. Recommended for thrombophlebitis of varicose veins of moderate severity. Doctors recommend wearing those stockings all the time.
- The third compression class is 33 to 45 mm Hg. Art. it is purchased only according to the prescription of the phlebologist. Doctors recommend wearing stockings of this type for deep vein thrombosis and other severe cases.
- The fourth compression class - exceeds 50 mm Hg. Art. - it is recommended to use in violation of lymphatic flow and eliminate edema.
Attention!
- Do not confuse ordinary elastic stockings with compression stockings. The density of curative and preventive measures is measured in millimeters of mercury, not in dens.
- Medical stockings have a wearing period. No more than 6 months. Washing and daily use makes them unusable.
- High-quality varicose compression stockings do not come cheap.
- If you are in doubt about which brand to buy tights or stockings, buy them marked RAL: they meet international quality standards.
How to put on varicose vein medical compression stockings for women
There are rules about putting on compression stockings that are different from putting on regular wardrobe items.
- Apply immediately after waking up, in bed.
- It is necessary to do it correctly and very carefully, without twisting or overstretching the fabric.
- The top is carefully assembled into an accordion.
- Then, inserting the palms of the hands inside the sock, carefully pull the sock over the foot, not forgetting the correct location of the heel.
- Straightening very slowly, pull on the shin.
- Then, also carefully, gradually pull them over your hips, lifting your torso a little.
Anti-varicose compression stockings can be used for both treatment and prevention of vein diseases. At the same time, before buying such underwear, do not forget to consult, because self-treatment can lead to negative consequences for your health. Good luck!