Many Manhattan residents are affected by varicose veins. Your veins become weaker as you age. As the valves in your veins lose strength, blood pools instead of making its way back to your heart. The result? Swollen, painful veins that you want to know how to get rid of. Varicose veins do not disappear on their own.
Varicose veins may cause no pain or put you in a lot of discomfort. They also change the appearance of your legs, possibly making you self-conscious. Whether you’re wondering how to prevent varicose veins for cosmetic reasons, or how to get rid of varicose veins for health reasons, injection sclerotherapy for varicose veins may be the answer.
The Benefits of Injection Sclerotherapy for Treating Varicose Veins
Injection sclerotherapy for varicose veins causes the affected vein to essentially disappear. Your NYC vein doctor injects a solution into the troubling vein. The solution irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to swell and block the flow of blood. The vein then produces scar tissue, permanently closing it off. In time, the vein is absorbed back into your body.
Injection sclerotherapy for varicose veins can typically be done at your vein center in NYC, as an outpatient procedure. Vein sclerotherapy can:
- Eliminate the pain, itching and swelling related to varicose veins
- Reduce the risk of night cramps in your legs
- Improve the appearance of your legs
Following vein sclerotherapy, your blood is rerouted to healthier veins nearby and you feel much better.
Before the Procedure
When you discuss how to get rid of varicose veins with your Manhattan doctor, she’ll take a full medical history during initial vein treatment consultation to determine whether vein sclerotherapy is appropriate for you. Be honest about how you’ve tried to treat or prevent varicose veins in the past. Also share if any family members have been afflicted with varicose veins.
In the 24 hours before your sclerotherapy appointment, don’t shave your legs or use any type of lotion on them. Plan to wear loose-fitting trousers, a skirt, or shorts to the appointment. Keep your legs bare underneath.
During Injection Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins
In preparation for vein sclerotherapy, your vein specialist cleans and disinfects the area to be injected. Anesthesia isn’t required, although the cleaning solution may contain an analgesic to reduce discomfort. The doctor slowly injects the sclerotherapy solution into the affected vein.
After the injection, your doctor massages the treated vein and surrounding area to distribute the sclerotherapy solution. If you’re having multiple veins treated, she may then move on to the next vein. Vein sclerotherapy usually takes less than an hour.
Following the Procedure
Once your sclerotherapy is complete, you can get up and move around. This encourages circulation and helps prevent blood clots. Although you can resume most of your usual activity after completing vein sclerotherapy, you should have someone else drive you home. Additional instructions may include:
- Wear compression stockings or bandages for up to two weeks
- Avoid sun exposure on the treated areas to help prevent formation of dark spots on your skin
- Avoid strenuous exercise for a short period
A follow-up visit is scheduled, usually about a month later. Your doctor wants to check to make sure the procedure worked as expected.
Side Effects and Risks
Vein sclerotherapy is a safe procedure that is low on the pain scale. However, as with any procedure, there are potential side effects and risks. Possible side effects immediately following injection sclerotherapy for varicose veins include:
- Bruising
- Small sores
- Areas of red, raised skin
- Dark spots or lines on your skin
- Tiny visible red blood vessels near the treatment site
These side effects usually disappear in a matter of days or weeks, but can last up to a year. More serious side effects warrant a call to your Manhattan vein specialist. These include:
- Swelling around the injection site. Your skin may be red, painful, or inflamed. Often, an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication helps.
- Air bubbles in your bloodstream can cause headaches, vision problems, nausea, and/or fainting. Loss of sensation or trouble moving your limbs may also occur. These symptoms often disappear on their own, but let the doctor know about them.
- Blood clots can be serious if they move from the vein to your lungs. Call your physician immediately if you experience chest pain, coughing up blood, dizziness, or trouble breathing.