When you have chronic venous insufficiency, you can be overwhelmed with questions. When will it stop hurting? How did this happen? What can I do to treat this? The swelling through the lower legs and ankles, especially after extended periods of standing, can feel like anchors. Seeing new varicose veins appear is frustrating, and any flaking, itching, or venous ulcers do not help the situation. Sclerotherapy can help, though. Here are some questions you can discuss with your doctor if you’re considering sclerotherapy to treat venous insufficiency.
A foam solution is injected into the affected vein, causing it to scar. This makes the blood reroute to healthier neighboring veins. The injected vein then collapses and gradually fades away as it is reabsorbed into the body.
There are few serious side effects with sclerotherapy and any complications patients have cited are temporary. Some of these side effects occur around the treated area and include:
There are also less common, severe side effects that may require additional treatment, such as:
If you are worried about these or other side effects, do not hesitate to bring these concerns up with your doctor.
First, a doctor will perform an exam and interview you about your medical history, as well as your venous insufficiency. The affected veins are evaluated for treatment to ensure that there are no underlying diseases. Your doctor will ask you about recent illnesses or medications, as well as any existing heart conditions or history of blood clots. A doctor will also ask about your medications or supplements to make sure you are not on any blood thinners. If you are, you will be advised to cease the medication before the procedure to avoid any potential issues. If you have had previous treatments for varicose or spider veins, you will want to discuss these treatments (and their outcomes) with the doctor.
Sclerotherapy can be performed in about an hour in the doctor’s office and does not require anesthesia. You will lie with your back slightly elevated as the doctor cleans the area to be treated. A small needle is inserted into the vein where the solution is injected. Once the doctor has finished, your doctor and an assistant will set you up with further instructions. You may receive at-home care details to follow as you recover.
Your doctor will invite you to get up and walk around once the procedure is over. During this time, walking is essential to prevent blood clots from forming. Your doctor may also recommend compression stockings or bandages for the next two weeks, because you must keep compression on the treated veins. There is little down time, as well. Patients can return to daily activities on the same day, but it is recommended to avoid strenuous activities or exercises for up to two weeks.
Never hesitate to discuss any concerns or questions you have about treatment. There is no such thing as too many questions in a doctor’s office! If you are in Walnut Creek, Berkeley, Concord, Antioch, Brentwood, Castro Valley, Alamo, Oakland or anywhere in the East Bay Area and are interested in sclerotherapy treatment, BASS Vein Center is here to help. Call us today to answer any questions you might have about the procedure. We look forward to hearing from you!
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