Varicose veins are not pretty, certainly, but they’re also a sign of stress in the legs. Usually caused by employment that compels people to stand for many hours, varicose veins can be dangerous, particularly if they become enlarged and painful. But for the most part, varicose veins are treated for cosmetic reasons, the same as spider veins.
If you’re thinking about doing something about your varicose veins, then sclerotherapy is the most widely-sourced treatment. In use since the 1930s, it’s an effective, safe procedure that eliminates the problem.
IMPORTANT: If you have varicose veins, it’s advisable to consult with a primary caregiver to ensure they’re not a symptom of an underlying heart problem.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy for varicose and spider veins is the practice of injecting affected veins with a solution (usually saline). This causes the vein to collapse and the blood to clot. With time, scar tissue forms where the vein once was, gradually fading away.
The procedure usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes. Some cramping may be experienced, especially if a large vein is being treated.
Are you a candidate?
A medical consultation will reveal whether you’re a good candidate for this treatment. But a few rules of thumb apply.
Pregnant women cannot undergo sclerotherapy. Also, if you have a blood clot in your medical history, the appropriateness of sclerotherapy for varicose and spider veins will be evaluated in the light of several factors – your overall health, the location of the veins you’d like treated and reasons for the clot forming.
Veins which may come into play for later heart surgery are also ruled out, unless deem unusable in the event of a future bypass procedure.
Preparation and recovery
Your care provider will need to be advised of any medications you’re currently taking, including herbal supplements.
Many doctors ask that you cease taking any kind of anti-inflammatory drugs 2 to 3 days before your session. You’ll also be asked not to apply skin cream to the area being treated prior to your session.
Following sclerotherapy, you should refrain from any vigorous activity for several days, as specified by your care provider.
Side effects from sclerotherapy are usually negligible. You may experience itching for several days, or redness which will fade shortly after your session (within several days). Some people bruise at injection sites, also.
You’ll be prescribed compression hosiery following sclerotherapy, but you’ll also be encouraged to walk as much as possible and will be able to resume your daily routine right after your treatment.
Anti-inflammatories can’t be taken for 48 hours after treatment, but you’ll be able to use Tylenol. Avoid hot baths and other heat sources, including the sun, for two days after sclerotherapy.
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Our unique facility practices the Gold Circle of Care, bringing our guests a blend of primary care, anti-aging supports and leading-edge cosmetic treatments.
We know that your overall health depends on feeling good about yourself, so we’ve created this groundbreaking resource.
If you’re seeking sclerotherapy for varicose and spider veins, contact us for a consultation.
