Sclerotherapy

• Permanent hyperpigmentation (darkening) of the treated area

• Superficial phlebitis (venous inflammation)

• Venous matting (the development of tiny veins emanating from the site of a sclerosed vein)

• Pyoderma gangrenosum (an autoimmune reaction leading to the formation of a venous ulcer)

•  Thrombophlebitis (the formation of a venous clot)

The sclerosing agent will then be injected into a vein with a very fine needle (usually between 30 and 33 gauge).11 Needles this small usually don't cause pain, but there may be some discomfort. The healthcare provider will then massage the surrounding tissue to help disperse the solution along the route of the vein.

Sclerotherapy sessions take between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on how extensive the treatment area is. If the treated area is small, you may only require one appointment

•  Wear loose fitting pants or shorts

•  Medications:  Do not take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, Advil (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen), or Celebrex (celecoxib) 48 hours before and after sclerotherapy. These drugs can promote bleeding, slow healing, and increase the risk of scarring. You may also need to avoid tetracycline antibiotics and corticosteroids like prednisone. Tetracycline may promote hyperpigmentation, while prednisone can alter the effectiveness of the sclerosant. Be sure your healthcare provider is aware of all drugs (prescription, over-the-counter, recreational), supplements, and herbs that you use.

•  On the morning of the sclerotherapy session, do not shave or apply lotion, moisturizer, oil, or ointment of any sort to the area of your body being treated.

healthcare providers will usually leave several weeks between treatments to allow for proper healing.

• Put on compression socks,  stockings or use an ace wrap. Most people do not feel any pain or discomfort. The one thing you must do is wear your compression socks during recovery, particularly when you are on your feet. You will need to do so for seven to 14 days, depending on the extensiveness of the treatment. You do not need to wear them at night while you sleep

• It is not uncommon to experience redness, swelling, warmth, or itching around the injection site for a couple of days after sclerotherapy. This is normal and will usually resolve on its own without treatment.

• If needed, you can take Tylenol (acetaminophen) to help relieve inflammation and discomfort. Elevating your legs also helps. Bruising is uncommon but can occur.

• Do not take hot baths or sit in a hot tub or sauna. Instead, take shorter and cooler showers than normal.

• Do not apply heated pads or any form of heat to the injection sites as this can promote inflammation and bleeding.

• Walk at least 30 minutes a day at a slow to moderate pace for the first two weeks.

• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for the first two weeks.

•  Avoid direct sunlight or suntan beds as this can lead to hyperpigmentation.

After two weeks, you may feel tiny lumps in the treated area. This is caused when blood becomes trapped under the skin and is completely normal. The lumps usually dissipate over time, although it can sometimes take months. If they don't resolve, tell your healthcare provider; the lump may require drainage.

Call your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following after sclerotherapy:

•      Dizziness or fainting

•      Visual disturbances

•      Rash or hives

•      Difficulty breathing

•      Chest pain

•      Nausea or vomiting

•      Severe leg pain

•      Severe swelling of one leg

•      Coughing up blood

•      These could be signs of a rare but serious complication, such as allergy, thrombophlebitis, DVT, or PE.

•      Post-treatment assessment once the entire planned procedure is done. For spider veins  appointments may be scheduled six to eight weeks later.

•      Once a spider or varicose vein has been completely resolved, it is unlikely to recur.