If you have varicose or spider veins, you might be considering sclerotherapy for treatment. The vein specialist will inject a solution into the damaged vein, making it collapse. The treatment is considered to be safe, although there are possible complications. Learn more about the complications and how to reduce your risk.
Many people experience temporary side effects that go away shortly after the procedure. These include bruising, stinging, swelling, discomfort, and skin discoloration. You also might notice raised areas at the injection sites. Since they generally only last a few days, you should be back to normal quickly.
While uncommon, a small percentage of people experience significant side effects, such as infections, scarring, and severe inflammation. Some people also have allergic reactions or develop blood clots.
It’s also possible that tiny air bubbles will enter your bloodstream during treatment. While this isn’t usually serious, you can experience nausea, dizziness, and chest tightness if this happens.
If you have any serious side effects, consult with your medical provider. You might need treatment to help you recover.
Even though sclerotherapy is safe, complications can occur. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk.
First, have an experienced vein specialist treat your spider or varicose veins. The specialist will assess you to determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. Also, the specialist will evaluate the size of the veins to see if you need a foam or liquid solution, greatly reducing complications. Finally, an experienced vein specialist understands the importance of limiting the volume of foam and bubble load when carrying out the procedure. These are just some reasons it’s important to choose a specialist for this procedure.
Dr. Vinay Madan of the Center for Varicose Veins has decades of experience treating patients who suffer from spider and varicose veins. He previously served as the Head of Phlebology at the Fairfield and Wilton Vein Clinics of America and continues to provide outstanding care as the Medical Director at the Center for Varicose Veins.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Madan to determine if you’re a candidate for sclerotherapy. If you are, Dr. Madan will take special care to limit complications when providing treatment.
