A Closer Look At Sclerotherapy

Varicose veins can impact your appearance and cause you discomfort. Are you looking into ways to treat your varicose veins in Houston? If so, then your vein specialist may recommend an option called sclerotherapy. Continue reading to learn about this treatment option for varicose veins.

How It Works

Sclerotherapy is a proven medical procedure for treating varicose and spider veins that has been practiced since the 1930s. During this procedure, a solution is injected into the vein and irritates the blood vessel’s lining. The irritation causes the vein to collapse and, over time, the blood clots and the varicose vein fades from view as it turns into scar tissue.

What to Expect

Your sclerotherapy procedure will be performed at a doctor’s office by a surgeon or dermatologist and should take about 60 minutes or less. The solution is usually injected through a fine needle, and you may experience some mild discomfort for a couple of minutes after. Depending on your state of health and the size, number, and location of your varicose veins, more than one session may be required.

How to Prepare

There are some medications that you will need to avoid before your sclerotherapy appointment, so be sure to inform your doctor about every medication and dietary supplement that you are taking. Finally, do not apply any lotion to your legs on the day of your appointment.

What to Know

There are some mild side effects associated with sclerotherapy, such as itching, bruising, and raised, reddened areas at the injection site. Larger veins can become hard and lumpy and take several months to fade, and brown spots or lines may be left at the vein’s location. Also, new blood vessels may appear at the treatment site that typically fade over time without additional treatment. Ask your vein specialist about any other possible side effects before your sclerotherapy procedure.