For those in Fullerton, California and other parts of the country, spider veins can be a troublesome, embarrassing condition. The tangled, discolored appearance of the veins may lead some to feel self-conscious of their veins' appearance. Treatment is often sought in cases of spider veins to provide relief, although the condition is generally not considered a medical concern. Varicose veins, on the other hand, may be considered a medical problem and require treatment. Sclerotherapy is a treatment that has been successful in treating spider veins, although those with varicose veins may be encouraged to explore other treatment methods.
Sclerotherapy involves the injection of a chemical sclerant into the problem area, irritating the vessel lining of the problem veins while leaving other, healthy veins unharmed. This irritation causes the problem veins to collapse and shrink, eventually leading to the closure of the veins. The appearance of the veins will then go away as other veins carry out normal blood flow. The procedure usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes to perform, and most are allowed to resume normal activities right after the treatment process. Some are encouraged to wear compression stockings for a few hours or a few days if leg veins are treated.
The chemical sclerant that is injected is traditionally a liquid formulation, although foam formulations are also available that may provide certain benefits over the traditional liquid formulations. For instance, the foam formulation is usually more effective in displacing blood in the vein, and achieves greater contact with the vessel lining. What's more, foam formulations are usually easier to view on ultrasound when tracking its progress and ensuring it spreads properly throughout the treatment area. The foam formulation typically has a consistency similar to that of shaving cream.
Patients will discuss their condition with a specialist in the Fullerton area to help them determine which treatment method is right for them, and whether the foam or liquid formulation of the sclerant may work best. Candidates include most individuals who are suffering from spider veins and perhaps even some with small varicose veins. Those with blood disorders or cardiovascular problems may not be considered candidates. Women who are pregnant are generally not considered candidates for this treatment, either.
Risk factors and possible side effects for sclerotherapy include bruising, itching, redness, and discomfort in the treatment area, which usually goes away within a few hours. Foam sclerotherapy may be associated with a higher risk of microembolisms, which are tiny blood clots that form in the treatment area. For more information about these and other potential complications associated with sclerotherapy and foam sclerotherapy, patients should seek the consultation of a Fullerton vein specialist.
Learn more about foam sclerotherapy in Fullerton, California.
