Sclerotherapy is one of the most effective forms of treatment for varicose veins. In this procedure, a specialized irritant is injected directly into the affected veins. The veins then scar and close off, forcing blood to circulate through healthier veins in the legs. Eventually, the damaged vein is absorbed back into the body.
Sclerotherapy is completely safe and highly effective. Most patients who have varicose veins are eligible to receive sclerotherapy treatment. The only exemptions for this treatment are pregnant women and individuals with a history of blood clots. Sclerotherapy also has a very quick recovery time, with most patients resuming their normal daily activities soon after the procedure.
However, despite the safety and quick recovery, it is important to exercise caution following sclerotherapy treatment. Certain behaviors or habits can slow or negate your recovery following treatment. Here is a quick summary of what to avoid after sclerotherapy.
One of the most important things you can do after sclerotherapy is to remain active. Walking helps your circulation. This further aids in your body’s natural recovery and prevents new blood clots from developing. Conversely, long periods of sitting or immobility can increase the risk of blood clots following sclerotherapy. Your doctor will likely recommend that you walk around shortly after the procedure. They may also advise that you go for daily walks for several days following treatment.
Activity is a good thing following sclerotherapy, but it should be done in moderation. High-impact workouts, like running or weight-lifting, can prevent your treated veins from fully healing. Your doctor will likely advise you to avoid these types of workouts for at least 48 hours following sclerotherapy.
Overexposure to UV rays can cause blood vessel inflammation, which leads to swelling. This can hinder the healing process, and also cause discoloration in the treated area if it has not fully healed. If you expect to spend a lot of time outdoors following sclerotherapy, make sure you are protected from the sun. Wearing your compression garments will help to avoid harmful sun exposure, too.
Because of the risk of sun exposure, many doctors and patients prefer to schedule sclerotherapy treatments during the winter months.
Another common recommendation from doctors following sclerotherapy is to abstain from hot baths and showers for about a week. This may be a difficult adjustment to make for some, but it is only temporary. The heat from a hot shower can cause the closed-off vein to dilate and open back up. This can severely impact the healing process following sclerotherapy. Careful heat compression can be applied more than 48 hours following the procedure, however.
One of the most important items in your recovery from sclerotherapy is your compression stocking. Your doctor will likely advise you to wear this garment at all times (except when sleeping and bathing) to aid in your recovery process.
Your compression stocking helps with circulation in your leg. This makes it easier for the body to recover from the sealed vein. Improved circulation also reduces the risk of developing complications from other potential vein conditions.
While sclerotherapy is generally safe, it's important to be aware of potential issues that may arise during the healing process.
First and foremost, it's essential to understand the difference between normal side effects and complications. Some discomfort, bruising, and swelling in the treated area are common after sclerotherapy and usually subside within a few days to a couple of weeks. However, if you experience severe or persistent pain, swelling, or discoloration, it could indicate a complication that requires medical attention.
One of the most significant concerns is the risk of infection. While rare, infections can occur at the injection sites. Watch out for signs such as increased pain, redness, warmth, or drainage from the treated area. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to contact your healthcare provider promptly to prevent the infection from worsening.
Another potential complication is the development of blood clots, particularly in deeper veins. Symptoms of a blood clot may include sudden swelling, pain, warmth, and redness in the affected leg. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they occur in one leg and not the other, seek medical attention immediately, as blood clots can be dangerous if left untreated.
Additionally, some individuals may have allergic reactions to the sclerosant solution used during the procedure. Signs of an allergic reaction can include itching, hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you suspect you're having an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical care right away.
Persistent or worsening symptoms, such as ongoing pain, swelling, or discoloration, could also indicate complications such as phlebitis or thrombophlebitis, which involve inflammation of the treated veins. These conditions require medical evaluation and may necessitate additional treatment.
It's essential to monitor your symptoms closely following sclerotherapy and to communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider promptly. While complications are rare, being vigilant and proactive about your post-treatment care can help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.
Searching for sclerotherapy near me? If you are in the East Bay area, BASS Vein Center is the region’s most trusted provider for vein treatment. Our doctors have extensive experience with sclerotherapy, as well as other procedures like radiofrequency ablation therapy and ambulatory phlebectomy.
Vein surgery can be life changing for many people and a huge boost of confidence, let's get you scheduled for a consultation.
