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For people struggling with the problem of varicose veins, a number of therapy methods have been developed, differing in their invasiveness and the extent to which they reverse changes in the blood vessels of the legs. One of them is sclerotherapy, which consists in injecting varicose veins with a special preparation that causes shrinkage of blood vessels. Find out what this procedure looks like and when it can help with varicose veins.
How does sclerotherapy help with varicose veins?
To understand how sclerotherapy works, you first need to understand what varicose veins are.
Varicose veins arise when blood pressure rises to too high as a result of various abnormalities. The blood then stretches the blood vessels from the inside, causing them to widen excessively. We can recognize varicose veins by their characteristic dark blue color and winding structure. They are visible under the skin to the naked eye and most often appear on the legs, because gravity usually causes the greatest pressure there.
To bring relief to tired legs and reduce the visibility of varicose veins, we recommend Ventosil gel, which thanks to the extracts of hemp oil, peppermint and marigold, helps to reduce unpleasant ailments and takes care of the beautiful appearance of the legs. We also recommend hemp milk for varicose veins, which, when massaged in, supports the circulatory system and softens the skin. See the full offer of Ointments for varicose veins at Medonet Market.
Sclerotherapy is a procedure in which a special sclerosing preparation is introduced into the affected blood vessels, which causes the effect of shrinkage of their walls. This leads to the development of an inflammatory process, as a result of which the walls of the vessels become fibrous and they grow permanently together in the appropriate width.
Also take care of adequate orthopedic support for the treatment of varicose veins. Order the OS1st CS6 Calf Compression Sleeve, which improves blood flow and reduces the risk of cramps. The band is available on Medonet Market in the following colors: white, black, blue, gray, pink and yellow and comes in various sizes.
What does the sclerotherapy treatment look like?
Before starting the procedure, the doctor usually orders a Doppler ultrasound examination, which allows for a very thorough examination of the course of blood vessels and assessment of the degree of advancement of the changes. Then the doctor decides which preparation to use. He may choose to inject a sclerosing solution or opt for foam sclerotherapy, which uses a foam preparation.
The sclerotherapy needle is so thin that the procedure is practically painless. It usually takes about 20 minutes, but depending on the extent of the lesions, it may be necessary to repeat it 2 to even 5 times.
Sclerotherapy – after and before surgery
In preparation for sclerotherapy, it is recommended to take your routine at least 2 weeks before the procedure. It is a well-known dietary supplement that strengthens blood vessels and increases their thickness. Immediately before the procedure, it is best to leave the skin intact in any way – you should not shave your legs or use any type of creams, lotions, olives, etc.
In order for the effects of sclerotherapy to be as good as possible, the recommendations regarding the recovery period after the procedure should be strictly followed. Immediately afterwards, the patient must put on a special tourniquet and walk for a period of 30 minutes to an hour. This headband should be worn overnight for the next week.
For about a month after the procedure, you should avoid staying in one position for a long time, whether it is standing or sitting. It is forbidden to use the sauna, hot baths and sunbathing. If you are unable to bathe in cold water, you should regularly pour cold water over the area where the treatment was performed.
Slight bruises may appear on the skin during this recovery period. They should be absorbed spontaneously within a month to half a year, depending on the intensity of the treatment.
Severe pain, swelling, and other similar symptoms are not normal complications after sclerotherapy. If they occur, contact your doctor immediately.
To improve the functioning of the circulatory system, drink VEIN – herbal tea available on Medonet Market 3 times a day. As an aid, it is also worth using the OS1st FS4 + n compression band for the calf and ankle joint, available in black or blue. Such a band is an orthopedic support in the treatment of not only ailments related to joints, but also varicose veins.
Sclerotherapy – contraindications
Although sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive and safe procedure, as with any medical procedure, not everyone can use it. First of all, the effects of sclerotherapy will not be satisfactory in the case of very extensive varicose veins – unfortunately, in some cases the only solution is surgical intervention. The contraindications for sclerotherapy also include:
- pregnancy and lactation,
- a fresh tan,
- skin inflammation and thromboembolism,
- allergy to any of the ingredients of the sclerosing preparation.