Today, effective treatment options are available for treating varicose veins without the need for surgery. Sclerotherapy is a non-invasive treatment which is recommended as a painless, accurate and quick solution for people suffering from chronic varicose veins! It is also the most common type of treatment (used in about 90% of the cases treated).
Sclerotherapy: What is it exactly?
With this technique, a sclerosing agent is injected into the vein to irritate the walls and block the blood supply. Thus, the vein disintegrates permanently, eliminating the risk of recurrence.
Sclerotherapy is effective for removing visible, useless and/or painful varicose veins. The process starts immediately after receiving the injection, and lasts from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size of the vein being treated.
Note that the injection can be performed under ultrasound for greater accuracy and visibility. This process, called echosclerotherapy, is used for more severe and hard to reach varicose veins, as the substance injected in these cases is more powerful than that used for conventional sclerotherapy.
The Benefits of Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a quick and accurate way of achieving permanent results. Best of all, no recovery is necessary, so you can resume your normal activities immediately after the treatment.
If you are sensitive to pain, have no fear, as this technique is painless! You will feel some tingling from the injection. After that, say goodbye to heavy and painful legs!
What to do After a Treatment
Although the results from sclerotherapy are quick and permanent, here are some good habits to pick up after your treatment:
- Opt to take baths and showers with warm water and apply a cold water jet on the legs;
- Wear compression stockings;
- Apply the appropriate cream to keep your skin in good condition;
- Do some exercises to improve blood circulation, such as walking, stretching, cycling, etc.;
- Do not hesitate to take the stairs, and aim to use your feet for about 5 minutes every hour;
- Work your calves while walking on tiptoe. Remember that keeping the same position for too long is harmful to the health of your veins!
Sclerotherapy has the advantage of being painless, but make sure to follow the post-treatment recommendations to avoid having to deal with everyday unpleasant discomfort.
The Results are Final!
Once treated with sclerotherapy, the diseased vein is definitely done with. Thus, any risks of complications are eliminated.
Other varicose veins may appear over time but you will know to turn to sclerotherapy!
We can’t stress it enough; despite the benefits of treatment, it is equally important to prevent the occurrence of varicose veins by adopting a healthier lifestyle. This includes eating right, avoiding frequent use of saunas and hot baths, exercising regularly and… quitting smoking!