Your blood vessels transport about 7 000 liters of blood every day.
The veins in our legs carry blood from the lower extremities against gravity back towards the heart. The two most important mechanisms in this process are the calf muscle pump and the venous valves. During walking and exercising our calf muscles repeatedly contract and relax. When they contract they squeeze our veins. This pressure allows blood to flow upwards thereby opening the venous valves. When inactive, the calf muscles relax and the blood starts to flow backwards thus causing the valves to close tightly and preventing further blood from flowing back to the feet. When veins become insufficient however, they dilate and prevent the valves from closing properly. This in turn causes a reflux which is when the blood leaks downwards and stagnates in the vein. If left untreated, this can result in the appearance of venous disease.
Symptoms of Venous Disease
Symptoms of venous disease vary depending on severity and may include itching swelling cramps pain and legs that feel restless or heavy. Meanwhile visible varicose veins can also develop. Untreated varicose veins can cause inflammation of the venous wall and surrounding tissue followed by the appearance of edema. Furthermore, blood cells can leak out of the vein into the surrounding tissue. This results in hyperpigmentation of the skin. The most severe form of untreated varicose veins is an ulcer. The major risk factor for venous disease is genetic predisposition combined with other factors such as prolonged sitting or standing.
Sigvaris Compression
Obesity, advanced age, or pregnancy compression stockings from Sigvaris are an effective valuable and non-invasive treatment for venous disease. This therapy is based on a simple and efficient mechanical principle. An elastic compression garment exerts graded external pressure strongest at the ankle and lightest at the top of the stocking. By gently squeezing the veins, compression stockings improve the venous blood flow towards the heart thereby treating the edema; relieving the symptoms; and slowing the progression of venous disease. Together with a healthier lifestyle compression stockings can help decrease the risk of venous disorders.
Sigvaris compression stockings are available in various colors styles and strengths to ensure a more personalized therapy. Schedule an appointment with Vein Specialists of the Carolinas to get started on a treatment plan with Sigvaris medical compression therapy.
It’s time to give your legs the attention they deserve.
“All We Do Is Veins, All Day Every Day.”