Sclerotherapy is a fairly common treatment method used by specialists in Lone Tree, Colorado and around the country to provide relief from spider veins, and in some cases for the treatment of small varicose veins. These veins often appear tangled and discolored, and may be a source of embarrassment for those suffering from them. They do not cause symptoms of discomfort and heaviness like varicose veins, but they may be just as unaesthetic and many who suffer from them seek treatment to get rid of them. Sclerotherapy involves injections of a sclerant into the spider veins, which causes irritation to the vessel lining and eventually leads to the collapse of the veins so they disappear.
Once the veins have been treated, other veins in the area will take over blood flow for the destroyed veins. To perform this procedure, the physician will first sterilize the treatment area with a topical or local anesthetic. Larger veins are treated first, and then the smaller ones are treated. Several injections may be required depending on the size of the treatment zone; one injection generally treats about one inch of problem veins. The procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete, and most are allowed to return to normal activities or go back to work right after the treatment is administered.
Those who experience some pain or discomfort after the treatment may treat it with an over-the-counter medication, although patients should speak with the doctor before doing so to ensure that it is safe. Some of the possible side effects associated with sclerotherapy include bruising, itching, and swelling around the injection area, although these side effects are usually mild and go away on their own after a short period. Patients should consult with a Lone Tree vein specialist regarding possible side effects prior to undergoing any treatment.
Sclerotherapy is generally considered a cosmetic procedure, although some may use it as part of a larger treatment method to relieve varicose veins. If used as a cosmetic treatment, insurance usually will not provide coverage. When used to treat varicose veins that are considered a medical concern, though, insurance may provide some coverage. Those interested should speak with a Lone Tree vein specialist as well as their insurance company to learn more and determine whether their insurance plan will provide any coverage of treatment costs.
Learn more about sclerotherapy in Lone Tree, Colorado.
