Can Compression Socks Dislodge a Clot?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condition that occurs when tiny blood clots seep into the veins.
The clots can occur anywhere in the body and are extremely painful, sometimes fatal too. These blood clots are also common in the thighs or lower legs. The symptoms of DVT include pain, swelling, tenderness, and warm epidermis.
Physicians often recommend wearing compression socks as a remedy against blood clots.
Let's see how this pair of garments become at par with sophisticated medical procedures against clearing up the blocked blood vessels.
How do compression socks work?
Prima Facie compression socks may seem like tights or pantyhose, but they are crafted from very different materials for a very noble purpose.
Compression socks are composed of elastic fabric that nestles your thighs, legs, and ankles.
The construction brings in a unique effect that makes compression socks tight around ankles and a bit flexible around thighs and calves. This pressure scheme thrusts fluid up the leg. In turn, blood flows freely from the legs to the heart.
Here comes the rub!
As the blood flows unhindered, the small clots get broken down under the immense pressure of ebb and crest. The seamless circulation also discourages pooling or clotting of the blood in the first place.
How to cherry-pick compression socks for DVT?
Compression socks come in a variety of sizes and pressure thresholds. It is essential to consult the physician for the right type among thigh-high, full-length, or knee-high. Knee-high is recommended when the clots' cluster is above the knee.
Doctors can also prescribe compression socks, but you need not get one for socks up to 20 mmHg. However, the recommended tightness against DVT is between 30-40 mmHg.
Just like proper compression pressure, the size also has a say. Size plays a make-or-break role as size varies by brand. Hence, it is essential to take body measurements and compare them with the sizing chart before striking the deal.
Final takeaway
No way DVT's lethality should be overlooked. It is a lurking danger. The accumulated blood clots can also travel up the body and reach vital organs like the lungs and heart.
So, compression stockings are the best and most handy remedy. It works systematically by gradually rectifying the pressure streams. The clogs get cleared, and you enjoy your whole life. Cheers!