Varicose veins occur when veins twist and bulge. Typically seen in the legs, varicose veins can cause pain and discomfort at times, while for someone, it is more of an aesthetic concern. Sclerotherapy is a treatment used for treating both spider and varicose veins. The procedure is minimally invasive and doesn’t have any downtime. The procedure involves injecting sclerosing agents directly into the affected veins. The sclerosing agent is usually a sterile and foamy solution, which causes the affected vein to collapse. If you want to learn more about sclerotherapy, here is an overview for your help.
How is sclerotherapy done?
Sclerotherapy sessions typically take 15 minutes to an hour. Patients often may need more than a few sessions to see the effects, depending on the condition. The skin around the affected veins is first cleaned, and the doctor then injects the veins with a sclerosing agent. Sclerosing agents can include polidocanol or hypertonic saline solutions. Since the targeted veins have collapsed, the body will naturally redirect blood through other veins. Over a period of time, the damaged vein will get absorbed and won’t be visible anymore. Doctors will typically recommend patients to avoid certain medications to minimize bruising.
Does the procedure hurt?
The short answer is no. Some patients do experience some sort of burning sensation or cramping when the solution is injected into the targeted vein, but that doesn’t last more than a few seconds. There is no downtime, and you can get back to your normal routine almost immediately. Your doctor will ask you to walk after the treatment as long as you don’t engage in strenuous activities. For the next couple of days, you may have to wear compression stockings. If you have pain, you can take pain medications recommended by your doctor, but do not take aspirin.
What to expect after?
Sclerotherapy is a safe procedure, but you may have to take a few precautionary steps for two days after the session. Firstly, you should stay active so as to avoid the chance of getting blood clots. You should also avoid direct sunlight and saunas for the next couple of days. If there is any bruising at the site, it should subside within a day or two.
Sclerotherapy is not recommended for pregnant women. Talk to your doctor if you are allergic to certain things, foods, and medications. At times, the solution used for sclerotherapy can cause unwanted allergies, which is among the rare side effects. You can find local clinics near you for varicose vein treatment.
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