Q: Which type of compression stocking should be worn for travel and by someone who has postural tachycardia syndrome?
I am taking a long haul flight that is about 15 hours. I have postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and would like to wear a comfortable and effective compression stocking on the flight. Should I opt for knee-high, thigh-high, or panty hose? Also, what grade?
A: 15-20 mm Hg stockings should suffice, and the knee-highs are all that is required. Just get up and move about during the flight every 30 minutes and exercise your calf muscles at your seat every now and then.
Q: The leg that was treated with endovenous laser ablation falls asleep soon after sitting down, is this normal? I am two weeks out from endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) and have had several complications that my physician has seen me for. A blood clot was ruled out but now the leg that had the procedure falls asleep very soon after sitting down. Is this normal?
A: This should resolve with time, especially if you still have some leg swelling. I would give it up to 6-8 weeks to resolve, assuming this is your only complaint, but you should always stay in close follow-up with your treating physician.