For patients suffering from spider veins or small varicose veins in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area, finding relief may be very important. These conditions may be extremely embarrassing and may cause patients to feel self-conscious. There may be several options available for patients suffering from these venous conditions, although foam sclerotherapy is widely considered among the leading treatments for spider veins and small varicose veins. Those suffering from larger varicose veins may require different treatments and may in some cases require varicose vein surgery. Interested patients are encouraged to speak with a medical professional at a reputable clinic in their area.
Before beginning any treatment, patients should visit a vein specialist to determine if they are suffering from spider veins or varicose veins. Spider veins may not be of a medical concern but, like varicose veins, may be extremely unappealing in appearance, leading many patients to seek relief. Varicose veins may cause pain and may cause the legs to feel heavy. It is important to determine which condition the patient is suffering from so that the vein specialist may recommend the appropriate treatment.
Foam sclerotherapy has been effective in helping patients find relief from spider veins and small varicose veins. Sclerotherapy is a commonly used treatment that involves the use of a liquid chemical sclerant to irritate the vessel lining of the vein. This causes it to collapse, shrink and eventually fade away completely. Blood flow will then be carried out by veins deeper within the body, eliminating the superficial appearance of the condition.
In foam sclerotherapy, instead of a liquid chemical sclerant, a foam version of the sclerant is used to provide increased surface area. This allows the chemical to come into contact with more of the vessel lining and helps to displace blood in the vein for improved treatment. The foam version of the chemical sclerant is also easier to view on the ultrasound.
To perform the treatment, the area is first sterilized. A topical anesthetic will then be applied to provide patients with a comfortable treatment. The medical professional performing the procedure will then inject the foam sclerant into the problem vein, using ultrasound technology to ensure that the treatment is properly placed and to monitor its progress. More than one injection may be necessary depending on the size of the treatment area. This is best discussed with a medical professional for a reliable estimate of the amount of injections required. The procedure usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes.
Most patients are able to return to work or other normal daily activities immediately following treatment. The minimally invasive nature of this treatment and the short or non-existent recovery period is what attracts many patients to this procedure. Compression stockings may be required for a couple of days following this procedure if the legs are treated.
It is important that patients discuss the possible risks of any treatment including foam sclerotherapy with a knowledgeable medical professional to best avoid complications. This procedure has been associated with a risk of microembolisms. Common side effects may include itching, redness and bruising around the injection site, although these usually resolve within a few days.
Those interested in learning more about spider veins, varicose veins, foam sclerotherapy or other vein related topics are encouraged to speak with a medical professional at a reputable clinic.
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