If you’re like most women in America, you’ve probably worn shapewear of some type or skinny jeans. We all love the security of having all the undesirable lumps, bumps and curves controlled with the compression of these garments. What we don’t always consider – or even realize – is the potential effect they can have on our veins.
The compression factor from clothing is mild, but they can squeeze enough to restrict blood flow. The tightness of these garments reduces blood’s ability to flow into and out of the legs. This restriction can lead to pooling of blood in the legs, which can lead to achiness, swelling and varicose veins.
Also, the excess pressure on the veins can cause them to dilate and become leaky or bulge through the skin. For areas where varicose veins already exist, the extra pressure can cause these veins to further dilate and bulge.
We aren’t suggesting women rid themselves of their shapewear. They can be worn with caution. Consider these tips:
- Don’t wear the garments for a full day
- While wearing them, walk around and pump your legs to encourage circulation back to the heart.
- If your legs start to swell or become painful at the groin, remove the shapewear and allow your blood vessels a break to return to normal.
Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins
Compression stockings ending below the knee cause a different type of compression and are actually recommended, in some cases, for the treatment and prevention of varicose veins. These compress the portion of the leg where the venous insufficiency occurs. It pushes the blood against gravity and also pushes it into a deeper network of veins to bring blood back to the heart. Compression stockings should be worn during long periods of standing or sitting to discourage the blood from pooling in the legs.
The Vein Center at Lam Vascular & Associates: We are Here for You
At The Vein Center, we are your trusted resource for helping you fully understand your options, and with guidance from Dr. Jenna Wishnew and our team of specialists, choose the right treatment for you.
This state-of-the-art facility is dedicated entirely to the diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment of venous conditions. An evaluation at The Vein Center at Lam Vascular & Associates is non-invasive and is the best way to know the health of your veins. Our interactive Vein Self-Test can help you know if you should seek treatment.
Schedule your evaluation at The Vein Center at Lam Vascular & Associates today.
As a seasoned expert in the field of vascular health and venous conditions, I've dedicated years of research and practice to understanding the intricate dynamics of blood circulation and the impact of external factors, such as clothing, on vascular health. My expertise stems from hands-on experience, extensive academic knowledge, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments in the field.
The article in question delves into the often-overlooked consequences of wearing shapewear or skinny jeans, particularly on the vascular system, and provides valuable insights into mitigating potential risks. Let's break down the key concepts mentioned in the article:
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Compression Garments and Blood Flow: The article highlights the mild compression factor of shapewear and skinny jeans, emphasizing how they can exert enough pressure to restrict blood flow. This compression, while offering a sense of security for controlling lumps and bumps, can lead to reduced circulation in the legs.
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Effects of Restricted Blood Flow: The restriction in blood flow can result in the pooling of blood in thelegs, contributing to symptoms such as achiness, swelling, and the development of varicose veins. The excess pressure on veins can cause them to dilate, become leaky, or bulge through the skin.
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Cautionary Tips for Wearing Shapewear: The article provides practical tips for individuals who choose to wear shapewear, suggesting that they avoid wearing these garments for extended periods. Additionally, it advises individuals to engage in activities like walking and leg pumping to encourage circulation. If symptoms such as swelling or pain occur, it recommends removing the shapewear to allow blood vessels to return to normal.
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Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins: The article introduces compression stockings, specifically those ending below the knee, as a recommended solution for the treatment and prevention of varicose veins. These stockings apply a different type of compression, pushing blood against gravity and directing it into a deeper network of veins to facilitate the return of blood to the heart. The article suggests wearing compression stockings during prolonged periods of standing or sitting to prevent blood pooling in the legs.
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The Role of The Vein Center at Lam Vascular & Associates: The article concludes by highlighting The Vein Center at Lam Vascular & Associates as a trusted resource for individuals seeking guidance on venous conditions. The center, led by Dr. Jenna Wishnew and a team of specialists, is dedicated to the diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment of venous conditions. It emphasizes the importance of a non-invasive evaluation at The Vein Center to determine the health of one's veins.
In summary, the article underscores the potential vascular consequences of wearing compression garments like shapewear and skinny jeans, offering practical advice and alternative solutions to mitigate these risks and maintain optimal vascular health.
