Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or Deep Thrombophlebitis is the term used to describe a blood clot which has lodged in a deep vein and most often occurs in the legs. Deep veins are veins which are found closest to the bones and are surrounded by muscle tissue.
Deep veins are responsible for returning most of the blood supply to the heart, which means DVT can be a dangerous condition.
Untreated varicose veins increase the risk of DVT. Other factors which can cause DVT include excessive immobility after surgery, cancer, genetic clotting disorders, and physical trauma, to name a few.
There is also a condition known as superficial deep thrombophlebitis, which involves blood clots building up alongside inflamed superficial veins. Superficial DVT is rarely a life-threatening condition but it can be painful.
How Do Compression Stocking Help Prevent DVT?
Long commutes around the globe often mean forced periods of inactivity. Office jobs and recovering from major surgery are also responsible for keeping us stationary for most of the day.
When we move about, even by small amounts, the muscles in our legs apply pressure to the blood vessels and keep blood moving.
Sitting still for a long time allows blood to pool in our lower extremities. It’s a dangerous situation because the blood that is not flowing is prone to clotting.
DVT compression stockings help compensate for the lack of inactivity. The compression applies extra pressure to the blood vessels via the muscles and helps prevent blood from pooling and clotting.
Use of Compression Stockings After Deep Vein Thrombosis
If you have been diagnosed with DVT and are experiencing pain and swelling in your leg, compression stockings may provide some relief.
Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) affects approximately 40% of people diagnosed with DVT. The intensity of the symptoms will vary with each patient but may include:
· Ulcers
· Spider veins and dark pigmentation
· Hardening and itchiness of the skin
· Feelings of pain, tightness, heaviness, or pressure in the legs
· Fatigue in the legs
It was once thought that compression stockings helped reduce the development of PTS. Recent research has proven that this isn’t true, but they may still be able to provide relief by reducing the severity of pain and swelling. Check with your doctor or health care provider for recommendations.
How Long Do I Need to Wear Compression Stockings After DVT?
There is no hard and fast rule for how long to wear compression stockings after DVT as it depends a lot on the patient and the severity of the symptoms. Generally, if compression stockings continue to provide relief, you should continue to use them.
For some patients, it may be a few weeks, while others could be using compression stockings after DVT for months, and in some cases, years. If you are no longer experiencing swelling or pain without the stockings, then it should be safe to stop using them. However, it is always wise to check with a healthcare professional before discontinuing use.
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