Sclerotherapy to Get Rid of Spider Veins

Those in Houston, Texas and other parts of the country who are experiencing spider veins may find relief through sclerotherapy. This is a non-invasive treatment that involves the injection of a chemical sclerant that irritates the vessel lining so that it collapses, shrinks and disappears entirely, effectively getting rid of spider veins. With the problem veins treated, circulation is carried out through healthy veins in the area. The outward appearance of spider veins is therefore significantly reduced.

The treatment area is first sterilized and the doctor injects the chemical sclerant into the larger veins first, and then the smaller ones. The progress of the chemical treatment is monitored throughout treatment using ultrasound technology in many cases. The injection needle used with this treatment is so small that patients feel little pain and do not need anesthesia. About 10 to 30 minutes are all that are required to perform sclerotherapy for most patients. Some may experience a minor stinging or burning sensation during and right after the injections, but this is temporary and short-lived in most cases.

Following treatment, a bandage will be applied and compression stockings should be worn for a few days to aid in the healing process. Any discomfort that patients experience may be managed using over-the-counter pain medication, although patients should talk with their doctor before using any medicine to make sure that it is safe to do so. Mild bruising, itching or swelling at the injection site is normal and side effects are rare and short in duration in most cases. Rarely, allergic reactions, infection at the injection site and complications that are associated with poor injection technique may be present. For this reason it is important to seek treatment from an experienced and highly trained professional.

Patients may be encouraged to walk regularly following treatment to encourage good circulation. However, patients should avoid strenuous activity for the initial days after the procedure is performed. Those who receive treatment should follow the recovery guidelines given to them by the medical professional who performed the procedure to ensure proper healing following treatment.

Sclerotherapy is used to treat spider veins or small varicose veins. Those who are suffering from larger varicose veins may be encouraged to seek other forms of treatment. Patients should discuss their condition with a specialist prior to treatment to determine whether sclerotherapy is a proper treatment option or if they should seek other methods of treatment. As spider veins are typically considered a cosmetic concern, insurance may not cover the cost of treatment. If the patient experiences negative medical side effects of varicose veins, the procedure may be covered. It is important to discuss this with a Houston vein specialist and one's insurance company before treatment.

Learn more about sclerotherapy in Houston, Texas.