Spider veins and varicose veins are conditions that can plague your legs and other extremities as you get older. While there are numerous treatments currently available on the cosmetic market, studies have shown sclerotherapy to be the most versatile and usually the most effective treatment for spider veins and small varicoses veins. While this treatment is effective and hugely popular, it may be not be for everyone. Here is what sclerotherapy entails and who can be a great candidate for it:
What is It?
Sclerotherapy is an injection of medication that shrinks blood vessels and lymph vessels to reduce the bulging appearance. Since it is an injectable procedure, no surgery is required, and it is minimally invasive. Sclerotherapy first originated in the 19th century and has evolved to catch up with today’s research and technology.
Sclerotherapy is often used to treat unhealthy veins such as varicose veins. This problematic condition can cause the veins to bulge due to thin vein walls or weakened vein valves. The result is blood pooling in the veins, causing them to swell and be very painful. Skin issues such as ulcers can also develop.
What It Treats
Sclerotherapy treats varicose veins by irritating and closing the affected veins, after which they are naturally absorbed into the body. Sclerotherapy can also treat a variety of other conditions such as hemorrhoids, hydroceles, and malformed lymph vessels. With benefits for those suffering from a number of conditions, sclerotherapy continues to be a popular treatment.
Who is a Good Candidate for Sclerotherapy?
Similar to other venous treatments, sclerotherapy is not for everyone. Specifically, sclerotherapy is designed for patients who are between the ages of 20 to 80, who do not have a current or history of blood clots. Women who are pregnant or or currently breastfeeding are also not a good candidate for this treatment. There are no other restrictions besides being able to follow your physician’s instructions and having realistic expectations. No vein treatment will work overnight, and patients should not expect them to. Patients must also realize sclerotherapy does not prevent any new varicose veins from forming. In order to prevent any new varicose veins from forming, patients may need to adopt lifestyle changes such as remaining physically active to the best of their ability.
Choosing the Laser Vein Center
If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Laser Vein Center for a free consultation. Our highly-trained staff is led by the knowledgeable Dr. Wright who has years of providing sclerotherapy to patients who are able to receive this incredible treatment. Call today to start planning your varicose vein treatment.
