If you have conditions like varicose veins, spider veins, and reticular veins, you may want to look for treatments that can fix aesthetic concerns. Sclerotherapy is the procedure that helps eliminate these vein issues. Unlike surgery, which usually requires anesthesia, sclerotherapy is a safer alternative. There are numerous Boise sclerotherapy treatment clinics that you can consider for the procedure. Below is a simplified overview that will help you understand the treatment better.
What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is minimally invasive and involves the use of fine needles. The needle is used to inject a saline or foamy solution into the targeted vein. Depending on whether the veins are easily visible through the skin, your doctor may rely on ultrasound for injecting the liquid. The solution causes an irritation in the walls of the vein, triggering it to shut down. The vein eventually becomes scar tissue and is naturally absorbed by your body. Contrary to popular belief, sclerotherapy is not new and has been in use since the 1930s, although the procedure is a lot safer now.
Are you a good candidate for sclerotherapy?
Your doctor will discuss the treatment options for vein conditions and do a thorough examination to determine if you are an ideal candidate for the procedure. If you are pregnant, your doctor may advise against sclerotherapy. Also, the treatment doesn’t work for more prominent varicose veins.
How is the procedure done?
You will need to wear comfortable clothes and not use any lotion on the targeted area on the day of the treatment. Your doctor will clean the area and inject the solution using a fine needle. You may experience discomfort or stinging as the solution is injected, but there is no pain. The process can take up to an hour, depending on the number of veins targeted. This is an outpatient procedure, which means you can go back home right after. If you are sensitive to pain, let your doctor know and ask whether you can consider a topical anesthetic agent.
Are there any side effects?
While sclerotherapy is a safe treatment, some patients may have itching, swelling, and bruising at the injection site. These concerns shouldn’t last for more than two days, but if you see a visible difference in skin color or have pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Done by an experienced doctor, there are minimal concerns related to sclerotherapy, which continues to remain a popular treatment for vein conditions.
