Everything about Compression Stockings part 6

Will a moisturizer ruin my stockings?

A tiny amount of moisturizer on the leg will not hurt the stocking. However, one should never soak the stocking with gobs of creams, lotions, ointment, or oils containing acids or petroleum. All these chemicals can ruin your stocking.

How long does one usually wear compression stockings?

Compression stockings have to be worn as long as you are at risk for blood clots. For those who have varicose veins, stockings should be worn for a life time.

Tips for wearing Compression Stockings

- to relieve symptoms of leg swelling, one must
wear them everyday
- compression stockings are best worn with rubber gloves
- in the beginning compression stockings may feel
tight and warm, so one should wear them a few hours
each day and gradually increase number of hours each week
- stocking should be worn first thing in the morning
- stocking can be worn just before bed time
- if you develop dry skin after wearing stockings, apply
a moisturizer at night
- do not fold or roll your stocking
- do not stretch or tamper with the elastic band in the
stocking
- hand wash and air dry your stocking
- if you look after your stockings, a pair can last
anywhere from 6-12 months or even longer
- if you develop skin discoloration, or pain after
wearing stockings, remove the stockings and see a
health care professional

Do I need a prescription to buy compression stockings?

Some doctors do write a prescription for compression stockings but one can buy them without one. Many insurance companies do reimburse cost of compression stockings if the doctor writes them for a medical disorder. However, one is free to buy compression stockings without a prescription