Why You Should Wear Compression Socks on Vacation

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wear compression Socks

As a senior citizen, you have earned the right to relax and have fun. To reward yourself for your hard work, you deserve to travel as much as you would like. Unfortunately, going on a trip now is not as simple as just hopping on the next flight. Instead, you need to take precautions against age-related conditions that could be aggravated by sitting for extended periods on airplanes. To protect yourself on long flights, take any prescribed medications and wear compression socks. Compression socks are socks that hug your legs a little tighter than regular socks to help circulation. For simple technology, these special socks can make all the difference. Here are five reasons to wear compression socks when you travel. Customize your sock with Porterreid.com

Blood Clots

Out of all the benefits of wearing compression socks while you are flying, preventing blood clots is number one. When you’re stuck in one place for a long time without being able to go for a walk or stretch your legs, like on an airplane, blood can pool in your lower legs. When your blood doesn’t circulate as it should, you risk deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

DVT can lead to blood clots that can end up in your lungs resulting in a pulmonary embolism. This is the worst-case scenario, but compression socks, which are tightest near the ankle and get looser near the thigh, encourage blood to return to the heart.

For a basic piece of clothing, compression socks are worth the investment. You’ll appreciate them on your way to the departure point for your Galapagos cruise.

Warmth

Compression socks also will keep your legs and feet warm. Part of this feature is due to compression socks helping your blood get deoxygenated by your heart. With better circulation, you will feel warmer.

To stay warm, you’ll also want to buy compression socks that feature moisture-wicking technology to keep your feet dry. In addition to being more comfortable dry feet maintain their warmth much longer than sweaty, wet feet.

Mobility

Senior citizens are more likely to have age-related mobility problems than younger folks. Two of the main conditions that affect getting around are arthritis and diabetes. Arthritis can cause stiff joints and general aches and pains. Diabetics often suffer from numbness, wounds and ulcers on their lower legs and feet.

Compression socks enable seniors with arthritis to enjoy their travels by reducing swelling from fluid buildup around joints and encouraging blood flow. They also can provide support, helping to eliminate pain from walking.

For diabetics, compression socks are recommended because they are anti-microbial, which is important if you have any open wounds. Furthermore, the increased circulation provided by compression socks will help ulcers and wounds heal faster.

Varicose Veins

Compression socks can help reduce pain associated with varicose veins. When veins in the legs are weak or damaged, they are unable to properly channel blood back up to the heart. In their weakened state, blood gathers and creates the painful and unattractive veins near the skin’s surface.

Traveling on an airplane or even on a long train or car ride can exacerbate varicose veins. Compression socks put pressure on your legs to assist circulation. In addition, the socks reduce pressure in your leg veins which helps alleviate symptoms.

Compression socks work best when they are put on first thing in the morning. While they will not cure varicose veins, compression socks may prevent the condition from getting worse.

Arrival

One last reason to wear compression socks while traveling is that you will feel good after a long flight or train ride. Your blood will have been circulating, bringing oxygen rich blood to your cells. To get even more benefit from your compression socks, stay hydrated and avoid salty food if possible. Then, instead of spending precious time recovering, you’ll be ready to see the sights.

In the end, compression socks will keep you comfortable and help alleviate the risks of being cramped in coach for several hours. Compression socks are safe for most people, but consult your doctor to be sure. Enjoy your travels!

 

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