A compression bandage is an elasticated bandage that uses pressure in order to receive a desired medical result. Swelling in the legs or signs of venous disease which results from fluid build up. Compression bandages have the function of supporting the veins in the legs, reducing swelling or oedema and preventing it from recurring.
There are obviously a variety of options available and the best option for your scenario will be decided by your physician. He will take into account the degree of severity as well as whether or not you have any open resultant wounds. Duration that the bandages need to be worn will vary according to the same principles. Open wounds will heal much faster with the use of compression bandages and will have less leakage due to the pressure.
What To Expect When Compression Bandages Are Applied
Bandage Care
When Are Bandages Becoming a Hazard
In these instances, the bandages must be removed immediately as they may have become too tight and are restricting blood flow to the extremities or your wounds may have become infected.
Compression bandages are an excellent treatment of swelling and oedema in the legs and for venous disease which may be restricting flow of blood to the vital areas of your body. This is a medical treatment and must always be applied by a medical practitioner who has knowledge of all your symptoms and your medical history. Certain conditions may increase your chances of being affected by oedema such as heart disease and special care must be taken in these cases. The initial ailment also needs to be treated as well as the resultant oedema. Open wounds need to be kept germ free and regularly cleaned and dressed. People suffering from diabetes need to take extra precautions as they have a tendency to take extended periods to heal open wounds and the results of infected wounds in this case, could lead to amputation of limbs.
Don’t rely only on your practitioner, this is your life and your health and if you notice any adverse effects or results through the use of compression bandages, your doctor needs to be notified immediately so that his course of treatment can be altered to improve the conditions and your ailment. Remember it is also your responsibility to take the necessary precautions and actions to assist the compression bandage to do the job it is supposed to do.
It is simply amazing how a stretch piece of bandage, placed strategically, can make such a huge difference to someone is really suffering with the pain and discomfort caused by oedema, swelling and venous disease. Medical advancements have been fantastic and we really need to applaud the person who designed and put this one into action.