When is Sclerotherapy Helpful?s

Varicose veins and spider veins are burdensome, troubling vein disorders that affect individuals in Kissimmee, Florida and throughout the nation. Those who are suffering from these conditions are encouraged to consult a medical professional in the community to discuss the condition and which treatments may provide the best results.

Spider veins do not take the bulging appearance that varicose veins do, but may be just as embarrassing and may lead to self-consciousness just like varicose veins. Varicose veins may cause pain and heaviness in the legs and may lead to night cramps and other symptoms. Patients may also complain of pain after sitting or standing for a prolonged period of time.

Sclerotherapy is a procedure designed to relieve spider veins and smaller varicose veins. Patients with large varicose veins may be encouraged to explore other options such as various laser procedures including endovenous laser ablation. Of course, patients are encouraged to heed the advice of their doctor in determining if sclerotherapy is right for them.

This procedure works by injecting the problem veins with a chemical sclerant that irritates the vessel wall so that the vein becomes inflamed, hardens and fades away entirely. Blood flow is then carried out by other veins in the legs, as the veins treated with sclerotherapy will no longer carry blood.

Sclerotherapy is performed by first sterilizing the treatment area and numbing the area with an anesthetic. A general anesthetic is not required for this procedure. The injections are then made, first into the larger veins and then into the smaller ones. Most patients feel little pain, as the needle used to inject the chemical sclerant is very small, and the procedure is usually performed in 15 to 30 minutes.

A bandage is applied to the treatment area after the procedure has been performed, and most physicians recommend wearing compression stockings for a few days afterwards to aid in healing and promote healthy blood flow. Most patients are encouraged to walk after the procedure to encourage blood flow, but should avoid strenuous activities in the days following treatment.

There may be some minor burning or itching after treatment, although these usually resolve on their own after a few days. Allergic reactions, infection at the injection site and complications that are associated with poor injection technique are also possible, but are rare. Nonetheless, those interested in sclerotherapy should discuss all possible risks and complications with a medical professional before treatment.

Those in the Kissimmee area who are suffering from spider veins or small to medium sized varicose veins should seek consultation with a vein specialist to determine if sclerotherapy is right for them. While sclerotherapy has proven effective in combating these conditions, some patients may not be considered candidates for this treatment and should explore other options.

Learn more about sclerotherapy in Kissimmee, Florida.