Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective medical procedure that treats spider and varicose veins. It involves injecting a solution into the veins, causing them to disappear and collapse. Over time, the treated vein will fade from view, and blood flow will redirect or reroute to your other healthier veins. Sclerotherapy treatment can work on various body parts, including the legs, face, and hands. To properly prepare for your treatment, consult a sclerotherapy Houston specialist. They will be able to explain in detail what you should expect during and after your treatment. Suppose you are considering sclerotherapy. Here are five things you should know before your treatment.
1. Sclerotherapy May Not Be Suitable for Everyone
While sclerotherapy is safe and effective, it may not suit everyone. Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid sclerotherapy. This is because insufficient research determines the procedure’s safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as blood clotting disorders or allergies to the injection solution, may not be candidates for sclerotherapy. It is important to consult your doctor to evaluate your medical history and determine if sclerotherapy is right for you.
2. Sclerotherapy May Require Multiple Treatments
Depending on the severity of your varicose or spider veins, you may require multiple sclerotherapy treatments to achieve optimal results. The number of treatments required will vary from person to person, but most individuals require at least two treatments to see noticeable improvement.
Your medical provider will determine how many sessions you need. Factors such as the size, number, and location of the veins, overall health, and previous treatments also affect the number of treatments you need.
3. Sclerotherapy May Cause Temporary Side Effects
Like any medical procedure, sclerotherapy can cause temporary side effects. Common side effects include mild swelling, bruising, itching, and discomfort at the injection site. These side effects usually resolve independently within a few days to weeks following the procedure.
Less common side effects of sclerotherapy include hyperpigmentation and the development of small blood clots in treated veins. These are usually minor and resolve on their own over time. If you are considering this procedure, consult your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits in more detail.
4. You May Need to Wear Compression Stockings After Treatment
After your sclerotherapy treatment, your medical provider may recommend wearing compression stockings. Compression stockings apply pressure to your legs, which helps reduce swelling and improve blood flow. Wearing compression stockings can help speed up your recovery and ensure long-lasting results.
Compression stockings are available in various styles and strengths. Your medical provider will recommend the type of compression stocking best for you based on your specific needs and the extent of your treatment. Wearing the compression stockings as instructed and ensuring they fit properly to maximize their effectiveness is important.
5. Sclerotherapy Is Not a Permanent Solution
While sclerotherapy is effective for varicose and spider veins, it is not a permanent solution. Over time, new veins may develop, which can require additional treatment.
It is important to live a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy weight to maintain your results. Also, it is best to follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure that any concerns or new symptoms are addressed promptly.
Sclerotherapy can provide relief and discomfort associated with spider and mild varicose veins. The above information lets you make informed decisions before beginning your treatment. However, it is important to note that the results of sclerotherapy may take a while to see a significant improvement, and it may take several weeks to months to see significant improvement.
Remember to follow your doctor’s instructions for post-treatment care and attend follow-up appointments to achieve optimal results. Also, avoid factors that often trigger your spider veins’ reoccurrence, such as prolonged standing and lack of exercise.
