For a blood clot, do you wear compression stockings 24/7 or just during the day and take off at night?

Answers from doctors (12)


Tulane Heart & Vascular Institute

Published on Apr 22, 2013

It would depend on the severity of the deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and symptoms. In general, more is better.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1316_1409862499.jpg
Answered by Tulane Heart & Vascular Institute

It would depend on the severity of the deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and symptoms. In general, more is better.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Ozark Regional Vein Center

Published on Apr 11, 2013

You get the most benefit from compression stockings when you are vertical (such as standing or sitting) since the hose helps to get the fluid and blood back to your heart. They are less helpful when you are horizontal (such as sleeping), so it is less important that you wear them while sleeping.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1075_1499983011.jpg
Answered by Ozark Regional Vein Center

You get the most benefit from compression stockings when you are vertical (such as standing or sitting) since the hose helps to get the fluid and blood back to your heart. They are less helpful when you are horizontal (such as sleeping), so it is less important that you wear them while sleeping.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


North Shore Vein Center

Published on Apr 11, 2013

When to wear compression stockings depends on the type and extent of the clot. Early exercise is key and the stockings should be worn at least all day. Check with your physician.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1044_1410305618.jpg
Answered by North Shore Vein Center

When to wear compression stockings depends on the type and extent of the clot. Early exercise is key and the stockings should be worn at least all day. Check with your physician.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

Published on Apr 09, 2013

Compression stockings should be worn during the day and taken off while resting at night.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/713_1408044075.jpg
Answered by Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

Compression stockings should be worn during the day and taken off while resting at night.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Apr 06, 2013

Compression stockings should be worn during the day and taken off at night while sleeping or lying in the bed.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/554_1447800116.jpg
Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Compression stockings should be worn during the day and taken off at night while sleeping or lying in the bed.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Apr 05, 2013

Great question. You should check with your hematologist or internist first. However, I would typically put you in compression stockings 24/7 initially while you are being anticoagulated. If things are looking good after the first week or two, you can remove them at night. If the clots extend above the knee, you should be in a thigh-length hose. Make sure they are measured and fitted, comfortable and non-constricting.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/623_1499902138.jpg
Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Great question. You should check with your hematologist or internist first. However, I would typically put you in compression stockings 24/7 initially while you are being anticoagulated. If things are looking good after the first week or two, you can remove them at night. If the clots extend above the knee, you should be in a thigh-length hose. Make sure they are measured and fitted, comfortable and non-constricting.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Ross T. Lyon, MD, FACS

Published on Apr 05, 2013

Initially you would wear the compression stockings around the clock for the first 48 hours. Thereafter, they should be worn during the day or whenever upright.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1319_1506971616.jpg
Answered by Ross T. Lyon, MD, FACS

Initially you would wear the compression stockings around the clock for the first 48 hours. Thereafter, they should be worn during the day or whenever upright.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Arizona Vein Specialists

Published on Apr 04, 2013

Ordinarily, a high compression rated stocking is worn. This may may make lying in bed uncomfortable, so take it off for sleeping/bathing. Wear the hose primarily when walking or during the day. Do not hold your breath struggling to get it on or off. Are you just curious, or actually under treatment by a doctor?

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1365_1408044094.jpg
Answered by Arizona Vein Specialists

Ordinarily, a high compression rated stocking is worn. This may may make lying in bed uncomfortable, so take it off for sleeping/bathing. Wear the hose primarily when walking or during the day. Do not hold your breath struggling to get it on or off. Are you just curious, or actually under treatment by a doctor?

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Apr 04, 2013

You can take the compression stockings off while in bed, but some people still experience more pain relief by wearing them.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/464_1408044069.jpg
Answered by Advanced Vein Center

You can take the compression stockings off while in bed, but some people still experience more pain relief by wearing them.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Apr 04, 2013

I would discuss this with your physician. There are lots of variables involved.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/772_1408044077.jpg
Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

I would discuss this with your physician. There are lots of variables involved.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Apr 04, 2013

This answer has many components. In general, you should wear the compression stockings as much as you can during the first two weeks or for as long as you are having pain and acute symptoms. Once the symptoms improve, you can remove the stockings at night (usually at the 3 to 4 week mark). Secondly, depending on the location of the clot, you may want to wear the stockings for longer periods of time. The larger the clot and the larger the vein that has the clot, the longer you should wear them.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1053_1499982262.jpg
Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

This answer has many components. In general, you should wear the compression stockings as much as you can during the first two weeks or for as long as you are having pain and acute symptoms. Once the symptoms improve, you can remove the stockings at night (usually at the 3 to 4 week mark). Secondly, depending on the location of the clot, you may want to wear the stockings for longer periods of time. The larger the clot and the larger the vein that has the clot, the longer you should wear them.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Apr 04, 2013

Good question. Generally, the compression stockings are just worn while you are upright and removed while you sleep. Rarely, if there is a lot of swelling early after a clot, the stocking may be worn continuously.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

Good question. Generally, the compression stockings are just worn while you are upright and removed while you sleep. Rarely, if there is a lot of swelling early after a clot, the stocking may be worn continuously.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Related Questions for Compression Stockings

Compression Stockings -7 answers
And should you be physically active while wearing the crompression socks?
See More
Compression Stockings -15 answers
I am 21 weeks pregnant and my whole leg and feet really hurt. I only have knee-length compression hose. Can I sleep with them on?
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
How big of a size do compression stockings come in?
See More
Compression Stockings -10 answers
I got knee surgery and have been wearin the socks for 3 weeks with some rests a day. I walk on my leg so blood circulates and crutches help me in public. Is it safe to not wear the stockings at all anymore? I just really don't want a blood clot.
See More
Compression Stockings -12 answers
I wear compression stockings for varicose veins during my pregnancy. They ease the pain and tiredness, but my legs get so itchy sometimes - especially after I take my stockings off. What can i do to prevent the itchiness and are they too tight?
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
I was wondering if someone who already has a clot wore compression stockings, would it be safe? Might this dislodge the clot? I only just learned about compression stockings and I'm not sure of these details.
See More
Compression Stockings -7 answers
I had the procedure this morning and wore the compression stockings all day but I can't remember if the Dr. said to wear them when I sleep?
See More
Compression Stockings -11 answers
Do you recommend wearing compression stockings on long flights? I have two flights: one 8 hours with a break of 12 hours and continuing another 12 hours after. I have store bought knee highs and thigh highs. Any disadvantages?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
The knee highs are so much more comfortable. Are they effective enough?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works
Compression Stockings -9 answers
I'm wondering if the pressure from compression stockings can harm the fetus?
See More
Compression Stockings -6 answers
If I have problems with just one leg, can I wear one compression knee high or should I wear both?
See More
Compression Stockings -4 answers
How long after starting to wear these, will I see results?My calve has improved, but the ankle is still huge and the foot quite puffy.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
I presently suffer from a sciatica for the 1st time. Lots of pain in my calf area and particularly in one pinpoint spot in the calf along with hip/groin pain.I wonder if stockings will help my calf pain and is it safe at 20/30 compression?Thank you
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
I am wearing compression stockings and was wondering how long should I wear them? Six and a half weeks after my C-section, I am still not mobile much.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
What are the differences? Is it worth the additional cost?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
It seems like tight clothes wouldn't benefit circulation.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
My vascular surgeon did an ultrasound and prescribed endovenous laser ablation. She also suggested that I wear compression stockings after the procedure. However, due to severe psoriasis and eczema on my feet, I cannot wear full-coverage stockings that cover them. They must always be in wet dressings, but cannot be fully covered. Would footless compression stockings be just as effective as full-coverage hose following the procedure?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
I would like "save" my legs and buy compression stockings. I dont have any other medical problems that would require me to use the stockings other that I am a nurse and am on my feet a lot. What level of comrpession would you recommend I start with?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works

Related Articles

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR