Varicose veins and other vascular malformations can be very embarrassing, but Sclerotherapy can be used to improve their appearance. Sclerotherapy is a common procedure used by physicians in San Francisco to treat blood vessels. Less severe cases of varicose veins can be treated by making lifestyle changes such as increasing exercise levels or losing excess weight.
Facts about Varicose Veins
The exact causes of varicose veins have not been identified, but there are a number of contributing factors including genetics, obesity, and inadequate exercise. The veins usually appear gnarled and distended and are found near the surface of the skin. They are blue or purplish in color and often show up on the legs, back of the thighs, and ankles.
People most at risk for varicose veins include pregnant women, very obese individuals, as well as those born with weak vein valves. These are some of the conditions that can make varicose veins worse. Varicose veins are a very common problem in the US. It is estimated that about 40-45% of the adult population is bothered by some type of vein problem.
Sclerotherapy Therapy
Sclerotherapy is a non-invasive procedure that is used to make varicose veins disappear. It can be done in the physician’s office in as little as 20 minutes. Typically, 4-6 sessions will be required. However the number of sessions will also depend on how large the veins are. Small veins can be removed with just one treatment, but larger ones make take more than one treatment to clear.
Treatment with Sclerotherapy involves the use of a tiny needle to inject the veins with a special solution. Hypertonic saline and asclera foam are common choices. When injected into the veins, the solution causes the vein walls to shrink and collapse. They will eventually fade from view about 3 to 6 weeks after treatment. Sclerotherapy effectively closes off the vein, and this reroutes the blood to healthy vessels.
After treatment patients will experience minor inflammation and bruising at the injection site. However this generally lasts only for a few hours. There may also be some residual redness and tenderness, but this should ease after short time.
If you are suffering from varicose veins or spider veins, and believe that Sclerotherapy may be right for you, then contact your physician in San Francisco for an initial consultation. Pregnant women, as well as people with a history of vascular problems should avoid Sclerotherapy.