Sclerotherapy for the Removal of Varicose Veins—10 Useful Facts
INTRODUCTION
Although there are a number of treatment options for varicose veins, sclerotherapy remains one of the most popular options for a number of reasons. For one thing, it is relatively painless, quick and highly effective.
If confronted with reticular, spider or varicose veins, your best bet is to conduct some research regarding what diagnostic and treatment options are presently available.
You should also consult an expert in the field (i.e., a phlebologist, dermatologist, interventional radiologist, vascular surgeon, aesthetic medicine specialist, etc.), especially if disturbing symptoms (i.e., redness, swelling, itching, oozing, leg restlessness, painfulness) are also present.
FACTS TO HELP YOU DECIDE IF SCLEROTHERAPY IS CALLED FOR
1). Special chemicals are injected into the offending veins; they are meant to close off (through irritation and scarring) the veins. This causes the vein to slowly die and fade off. Several treatments may be necessary.
2). The procedure is often useful for spider and smaller varicose veins. Other treatment options may be suggested for veins that are deeper in the skin or are longer/bigger.
3). This treatment is done on an out-patient basis, usually while the patient stands. Elastic bandages may be placed around the injected areas to help the veins heal and for the sake of decreasing swelling.
4). Treatments may be spaced out into 4 to 6-week intervals.
5). Micro-sclerotherapy may also be used for the smallest varicose and spider veins. A very fine needle is used to inject a chemical into the veins. As in sclerotherapy, the chemical is intended to scar the lining of veins, thus causing them to shut off.
6). As in the case for other treatment options, people who exhibit problematic symptoms are best suited for sclerotherapy. Some such symptoms include:
- Troublesome pain, especially after sitting or standing for long periods
- Cramping or throbbing
- “Heavy” sensation
- Noticeable swelling
- Itchy or irritated rash
- Restless leg situations
- Skin darkening (in most severe cases)
7). In determining if you require or would fare well by choosing sclerotherapy, your Phlebologist will conduct a thorough medical evaluation; this may include a review of medical history, physical exam, an ultrasound scan (or some other imaging device, if warranted), and, more rarely, a venogram.
8). The causes for veins requiring sclerotherapy are often the same that merit other types of treatments—these include:
- Excessive standing/sitting and sitting with legs crossed
- Wearing overly tight clothing, shoes and high heels
- Overexposure to sunlight (without the use of skin protection creams/oils)
- Being overweight/obese
- Inappropriate diets (excess of fats/salt and lack of enough fiber)
- Hormonal changes and pregnancy
9). Sclerotherapy may be used in conjunction with other types of treatments, especially if bad veins appear in other parts of the body that may benefit from different treatment options.
10). There is no need for anesthesia for this procedure; additionally, this treatment option need not interfere with work schedules or other types of commitments.
CONCLUSION
Sclerotherapy has been around for a while. Its track-record is that of being efficient, quick, and painless. Considering these facts, it’s a viable treatment option for anyone burdened with varicose veins.
Copyright, 2018. Fred Fletcher. All rights reserved.
REFERENCES & RESOURCES
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/cosmetic-procedures-spider-veins#1
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/sclerotherapy/about/pac-20384592
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