Varicose vein issues? Compression stockings?

larrysdarling

Varicose veins run in my family and I've started to notice the ones I previously had are starting to expand.

Anyone experiencing this? I've been told compression stockings can help but can't imagine trying to squeeze myself into them. Any recommendations on stockings or other tips to help?

cros8380

Varicose veins run in my family as well, so I am trying REALLY hard to avoid them during my pregnancy. Compression stockings are awesome- you can buy them in knee-highs and thigh-highs if you don't want to do the full stocking. They are tough to get into, I laugh at myself while I struggle just to get my foot in the bottom, nevermind rolling them up...but they are worth it. I use them mostly at night or when I fly- they help with the slight swelling I get sometimes. I recommend putting on lotion or baby powder before you put on the stockings, to help keep your legs from drying out.

 I've also read that in order to help alleviate Varicose Veins, you should excercise (or just walk)- it improves circulation and lowers the risk of Varicose Veins. Don't sit or stand too long, and try to elevate your legs while you are sitting.

You can also ask your DR or MW for suggestions.

GL!

aforst

My grandmother had HORRIBLE varicose veins.  I have one on my right leg that is noticeable.  I sit down all day at work, so that helps.  My mom is on her feet all day and has always worn support hose.  They have really helped her.  They are like regular panty hose, only thicker and heavier (and more expensive).  I am almost positive they make maternity ones.  These might be an alternate option to the compression stockings.  Also, I try to put my feet up above my heart for a few minutes a few times every evening.  It takes the pressure off of them.  Try not to cross your legs too!

CopperT0p

I have 'prescription' stockings that are custom made for my leg size.  Luckily my insurance covers up to 4 pairs per year, so if my legs change size I can always get another pair or two.

They really aren't that hard to wear.  I admit I didn't wear them on the super hot days since I was already sweltering at work (we have to wear full length pants and the a/c is shoddy at best).

On top of wearing them, I was told do not wear them all day, just during the part of the day that you're on your feet the most (likely at work).  Then when not wearing them, try to put your feet above your heart as much as possible to allow the blood to flow more easily.  Also, moving your legs/feet around as much as possible to encourage the blood to flow is good.

 

cpmich

I have some compression stockings from Motherhood that were around $16 and are really comfortable.

Rachiemoo

I have to wear them for my vericose vein.  I purchased mine at brightlifedirect.com (not affiliated).  They have a bunch of different styles, I am wearing some black knee highs today and they just look like regular tights.  The key is to finding a good fit is making sure you get the right size, check out the size charts, I had to measure my ankle and calf circumfrance with a measuring tape.

If your doctor writes you a prescription you may be able to get them covered by insurance, they are a little pricey.

larrysdarling

Great, thanks everyone! I will check to see if my ins will cover them, but I don't think they will as my policy is a POS.

mrsschrager

We have them in my family as well.. my grandmother, uncle, dad and cousin all have/had them.. my cousin has had to have surgery and my dad got a clot in his lung from them.. thank god they found it before it killed him.. my grandmother died suddenly and they think it was a blood clot as well.  its the family  curse.. i did not get them until this pregnancy.. I dont have much advice but I will say my dad has them pritty bad and has to wear compression stockings and they are $$. Your insurence might be able to cover them though.