Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a nonsurgical treatment to get rid of varicose veins. A chemical called a sclerosant is injected into the varicose vein, causing it to close.
Sclerotherapy may be used to make spider veins and small varicose veins go away or become less visible. It is usually done only for cosmetic reasons because these types of varicose veins rarely cause symptoms or problems. It might be done along with other procedures to treat varicose veins.
Why is sclerotherapy done?
Sclerotherapy is used to treat:
- Spider veins and small veins that aren't causing more serious problems.
- Varicose veins that may or may not be causing symptoms.
It may be done on its own or as a follow-up to another procedure or surgery.
After sclerotherapy: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have severe trouble breathing.
- You have sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, or you cough up blood.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You get open sores on your legs where the chemical was injected.
- You have symptoms of a blood clot in your leg (called deep vein thrombosis), such as:
- Pain in the calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
- Swelling in the leg or groin.
- A color change on the leg or groin. The skin may be reddish or purplish, depending on your usual skin color.
- You have problems with your vision or balance.
- You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the area of injection.
- Pus draining from the area of injection.
- A fever.
Watch closely for any changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
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