For many people who want a solution to their spider veins, sclerotherapy is often the answer. But what is it? And how does it treat these pesky veins?
The procedure
During this minimally invasive procedure, a sclerosing solution is injected into the vein using a very fine needle. This solution irritates the vein tissue, causing the lining of the vein to swell, harden and eventually seal off. The vein then collapses, is reabsorbed into tissue and eventually fades — taking care of those nagging spider veins. The blood that used to flow through this vein now travels through healthier veins.
What to expect
Each treatment takes about 15 to 30 minutes. Every patient is different, and some may require several treatments to address all their spider veins. Make sure you wear comfortable, loose clothing and bring compression stockings to wear when the procedure is done.
To prepare for your treatment, you should not shave your legs or wear any moisturizer. Shaving can leave streaks, which can make spider veins difficult to see. And lotions may cause the tape used during the procedure to not stick as needed.
During the procedure, you can expect to feel a stinging/burning sensation with each injection, which should subside when the procedure ends. Once the treatment is over, you should walk for 20 to 30 minutes to ensure the sclerosing solution circulates through the treated veins.
The next morning, you will be able to remove your compression stockings and cotton balls. For the first week, you should wear your compression stockings during the day. You might have sensitivity, swelling, bruising and redness while your legs recover, but this should subside. You will begin to see results within six weeks.
Activity
The first week after your sclerotherapy, you will be able to resume normal activity; however, you should avoid running, heavy aerobics, heavy lifting, tub baths, hot tubs and swimming. UV and sun exposure should be limited for one month after treatment, and air travel is not advised for the first 48 hours. If you experience any pain, an over-the-counter pain reliever is recommended.
Patients who choose sclerotherapy typically see a 50–90 percent improvement in treated spider veins. If you would like to know if you’re a candidate for sclerotherapy and to learn about other treatment options for spider of varicose veins, please call MercyOne Iowa Heart Vein Center, 877-413-VEIN, or schedule a consultation online.
Am I a Candidate?
Determine if you are at risk for developing or already have symptoms for venous disease.