Sclerotherapy may be recommended if you have spider veins, varicose veins, or any other vein condition that requires treatment. If other remedies haven’t worked and this condition is affecting your life, this therapeutic intervention could be right for you. Here are some ways to know if you need this medical injection:
Visible Veins
Spider veins are thin, web-like, and appear close to the surface of the skin due to hormonal changes or genetics. These veins may appear on your face or legs and cause aesthetic concerns because of how they look. When blood pools due to weak or damaged valves, spider veins occur in different colors, like purple and red. As for varicose veins, they are larger and protrude from the surface of the skin. Unlike spider veins, varicose veins can cause serious health issues, such as open sores and blood clots. If you have visible veins, a vascular doctor might suggest sclerotherapy to help them fade away after the injection.
Constant Leg Discomfort
If there are malfunctioning valves in veins, blood flow becomes challenging, leading to persistent leg discomfort. You might experience aching or throbbing in your legs because blood collects in the affected veins, increasing pressure. People with varicose veins may experience a sensation of weight or tiredness in the legs at the end of the day. Others might notice that their legs are swollen after standing or sitting for extended periods. If these symptoms interfere with daily activities or worsen over time, a medical professional may inject a sclerosant to relieve discomfort by closing off the problematic veins.
Skin Changes Around Veins
When you notice skin changes around affected veins, your vein health could be worsening. If your skin darkens to a brown or reddish tone, it could be due to venous insufficiency. This health issue increases pressure in the veins, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissues. Your skin may also appear patchy or blotchy around the problematic veins because of the inflammation. If the discoloration is spreading or becoming more pronounced, see a vein specialist to diagnose the issue and offer treatment.
Minimal Relief from Lifestyle Changes
If you have varicose veins or spider veins, a healthcare provider may suggest lifestyle changes as the first treatment option. This professional could recommend that you elevate your legs to encourage blood flow back to the heart, reducing pooling in the veins. Even though this practice offers short-term relief, it might not address the underlying valve issues in the veins. If that is the case, a medical professional injects a solution into the affected veins, causing it to close off and reroute blood through healthier veins. This procedure removes spider and varicose veins, restoring a smoother, more even look to your legs.
Schedule an Appointment for Sclerotherapy
Whether you have mild or severe symptoms due to affected veins, a doctor may recommend sclerotherapy to lessen them. This procedure irritates the inner lining of the vein, causing it to collapse and seal shut. To learn more about this treatment option, call a trusted clinic today.
