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SCLEROTHERAPY
FOR UNSIGHTLY
VARICOSE AND SPIDER VEINS
What Causes Varicose and
Spider Veins?
Varicose and spider veins can be caused by
multiple factors, including heredity, pregnancy, prolonged standing or
sitting, obesity, and female hormones. Unfortunately, they tend to worsen
with age, due to a combination of weakening of valves in the veins and the
pressure exerted by gravity, and more will develop with time as this is a
chronic, progressive condition. These veins can sometimes be associated
with symptoms such as pain, aching, burning, itching, or fatigue in the
legs, but they are often asymptomatic. Fortunately, there is a safe and
effective treatment available for this condition------Sclerotherapy.
What Is
Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is one of the most common and
most effective treatments for varicose and spider veins, and has been
around for over 50 years. During sclerotherapy treatment, a small amount
of a safe and FDA-approved sclerosing solution is injected into the veins
through a very tiny needle. This causes an inflammatory reaction inside
the vein wall which destroys the vein, causing it to shrink and gradually
disappear as it is reabsorbed by the body. The treated veins are
permanently eliminated, and blood flow is redirected into other normal,
healthy veins, which actually improves circulation. It is possible to
develop more abnormal veins in the same area over time, but it is
important to realize that these are new and different veins. Sclerotherapy
is a treatment and not a permanent cure for varicose and spider veins.
There is no permanent cure for this condition, and new veins may appear
over time which may require additional treatment, although this may take
several years.
What is the Treatment
Like?
The initial step in the treatment process is a free
in-office consultation with the doctor, during which the doctor reviews
your medical history and evaluates your veins, and then determines whether
you are a candidate for sclerotherapy. You will then be provided with an
estimate regarding the number of treatments you will likely need. This may
be from one to several treatments depending on the number, size, and
location of your veins. A treatment session lasts 20-30 minutes, during
which time you will receive several small injections. This is followed by
a brief period of elevation of the legs in the office followed by
elevation of the legs for a couple of hours at home. This removes the
pressure on the veins, allowing them to close more effectively. After the
elevation time is completed you can resume your normal activities,
although you should avoid any strenuous activity or exercises for 48 hours
following a treatment. You should also avoid any anti-inflammatory
medications(aspirin, ibuprofen, etc,)for about 48 hours before and after a
treatment, as these medications can interfere with the effectiveness of
the sclerosing solution Support hose may be worn after treatment if
desired, although this is not absolutely necessary.
What are the Side Effects of
Treatment?
You may experience some temporary mild burning
with the injections which usually resolves within a few seconds. A topical
anesthetic cream is available which is applied prior to treatment which
minimizes the sensation over the treated areas. Some mild bruising may
develop over the injection areas which usually resolves within 1-2 weeks.
Some mild darkening of the skin may also develop over the treated veins
which is also temporary.
What Kind of Results Can Be
Expected From Treatment?
Some of the veins will disappear
almost immediately while others will disappear more gradually. Patients
can usually expect resolution of up to 90% or more of the treated veins.
Some veins may require more than one treatment for complete resolution.
BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
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