Unbearable itching while wearing compression stockings, what do I do?

My legs are extremely itchy when I wear Medi compression stockings. In fact, it's almost painful. When I apply grease and creams, the discomfort only goes away temporarily (approx. 2-3 hours). I've even changed detergent (Medi approved or "for kids" labeled) and rinsing time, but to no avail. I don't understand what's going on. I've worn hose before with no problem. What should I do? Do you know what might be causing the irritation?

Answers from doctors (6)


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on May 10, 2014

This is highly unusual. If you have worn other brands without problems, it may be the hose. A good quality medical compression hose have wrapped fibers for comfort. You seem to have tried what I would have recommended, so perhaps another brand such as Bauerfeind or Sigvaris is necessary.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

This is highly unusual. If you have worn other brands without problems, it may be the hose. A good quality medical compression hose have wrapped fibers for comfort. You seem to have tried what I would have recommended, so perhaps another brand such as Bauerfeind or Sigvaris is necessary.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on May 08, 2014

Try lubricating the skin prior to applying the stocking, and also try applying corn starch after the moisturizer have soaked in. Do not apply the corn starch and the moisturizer at the same time, or you will have a mess on your hands.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

Try lubricating the skin prior to applying the stocking, and also try applying corn starch after the moisturizer have soaked in. Do not apply the corn starch and the moisturizer at the same time, or you will have a mess on your hands.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Ozark Regional Vein Center

Published on May 07, 2014

The choices are to treat the skin with some over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream and some oral Benadryl, or try a new brand of stocking. Stockings tend to dry the leg out, so make sure you are constantly moisturizing your legs.

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Answered by Ozark Regional Vein Center

The choices are to treat the skin with some over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream and some oral Benadryl, or try a new brand of stocking. Stockings tend to dry the leg out, so make sure you are constantly moisturizing your legs.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


You may have an allergy to nylon. This is not common, but it happens. Do you have trouble with non-compression nylon stockings? If so, that is likely your answer. If not, you may want to try different brands, as all will have different yarns. Look for one that has "tactel" or softer yarns, and this may help. Wish I could help more.

Answered by Advanced Vein & Vascular Center Inc. (View Profile)

You may have an allergy to nylon. This is not common, but it happens. Do you have trouble with non-compression nylon stockings? If so, that is likely your answer. If not, you may want to try different brands, as all will have different yarns. Look for one that has "tactel" or softer yarns, and this may help. Wish I could help more.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on May 06, 2014

There are some patients who have allergies to the synthetic material of the compression stockings.

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

There are some patients who have allergies to the synthetic material of the compression stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on May 06, 2014

If you have worn support stockings in the past without a problem, then I would stop using the Medi stockings. It seems as if you have an allergy to something in the stocking. Try a different brand.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

If you have worn support stockings in the past without a problem, then I would stop using the Medi stockings. It seems as if you have an allergy to something in the stocking. Try a different brand.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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