Body

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins that are close to the skin’s surface. Varicose veins most commonly affect the veins in the legs. That’s because standing and walking increase the pressure in the veins of the lower body.

Causes

  • Weak or damaged valves
  • Aging
  • Pregnancy
  • Family history
  • Obesity

Indications

  • Veins that are dark purple or blue
  • Veins that appear twisted and bulging, often appearing like cords on the legs
  • An achy or heavy feeling in the legs
  • Burning, throbbing, muscle cramping, and swelling in the lower legs
  • Worsened pain after sitting or standing for a long time

Treatments

How does it work & Benefits

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to eliminate varicose veins and spider veins. Sclerotherapy involves an injection of a solution (generally a salt solution) directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to collapse and stick together and the blood to clot. Over time, the vessel turns into scar tissue that fades from view.

Benefits:

  • Does not need anesthesia as it is not painful
  • Fairly quick results for small veins
  • With successful treatment, varicose veins or spider veins won’t reappear

Pre & Post

Pre

• Do not take aspirin, or aspirin-containing medications for 10 days before and 3 days after treatment.
• The patient needs to bring their compression hose.
• Important to be well-hydrated. Drink 16oz. of fluids four hours before the procedure; no caffeine.
• Shower the morning of the Sclerotherapy. Do not use a moisturizer on the legs.

Post

• Try to elevate your legs. Avoid power leg work out for one week.
• Avoid hot baths, as heat causes blood vessels to expand. Quick showers are recommended.
• Protect treated areas from the sun and use sunscreen for 4 weeks after the procedure is done.
• Wear compression stockings for a few days

FAQ

One to two sessions depending on the case

Results are permanent

Side Effects

Small side effects may happen at the injection site as:

  • Bruising
  • Raised red areas
  • Small skin ulcers
  • Dark skin in the form of lines or spots
  • Many small red blood vessels

Varicose Veins