Varicose veins are a common condition affecting many elderly and overweight people, although it is not limited to these groups. These abnormal veins appear as twisted, ropey blood vessels that have a bulging appearance. Although varicose veins are often harmless, their appearance prompts many people to look for varicose vein treatment options like sclerotherapy.
Varicose Veins
Veins are blood vessels that are responsible for the transportation of deoxygenated blood back to the heart. Varicose veins are abnormally functioning blood vessels that have dysfunctional valves. Normal veins have one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing back into them. Dysfunctional veins have valves that do not work properly, allowing blood to pool in them and leading to their characteristic ropey appearance.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a type of medical treatment for varicose veins and other vein issues that has been used safely for many decades. It can be used to treat both varicose veins and spider veins. The way that it works is that the practitioner injects some type of solution into the abnormal vein, irritating it and leading to its collapse. Once the vein has been destroyed, it will be fully absorbed by the surrounding skin tissue. The blood that it once contained will be transported using nearby blood vessels.
Good Candidates
Before undergoing a sclerotherapy procedure, we will take part in an initial consultation with you. At this time, we will go over your medical history and examine your problem veins. We will make a determination if you would make a suitable candidate for this varicose vein treatment.
Your Procedure
Before undergoing this varicose vein treatment, you may need to refrain from taking certain medications. Be sure to inform us about all medications that you are currently taking, including dietary supplements, herbs, and over-the-counter medications. We may recommend that you avoid taking any type of medication that could lead to any issues.
During the procedure, we inject your varicose vein with a solution that will irritate it. The injected solution will cause the eventual collapse of the problem vein, which is then re-absorbed by your body. The treatment is performed in the comfort of our office. How many veins will require treatment depends upon the location and size of the veins and your overall medical condition.
Your Consultation
If you would like to learn more about how sclerotherapy can eliminate your varicose veins, we encourage you to book your initial consultation with our expert at The Dermatology, Laser & Vein Center in Cincinnati. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and get started.
