subject: Oneonta and Vein Sclerotherapy [print this page] Oneonta and Vein Sclerotherapy Oneonta and Vein Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a procedure designed to treat spider veins and small varicose veins that has helped patients in Oneonta, New York rid themselves of these troubling conditions. Varicose veins appear bulging near the surface of the skin and are typically purplish in color. They may cause some degree of pain and discomfort including heaviness in the legs. While spider veins do not cause pain and are not considered a medical concern like many cases of varicose veins, their unsightly appearance leaves many embarrassed and self-consciousness.
While sclerotherapy has helped patients overcome smaller varicose veins, those will larger varicose veins are encouraged to explore other treatment options with a vein specialist in the area. Endovenous laser ablation and other laser therapies have proven effective in treating larger varicose veins.
Sclerotherapy consists of injections of a chemical sclerant that irritates the vein walls in problem veins, leading to their collapse. The treated veins will eventually fade away entirely. Ultrasound technology is used to monitor the treatment to ensure its effective spread in the treatment area. Most individuals do not require an anesthetic with this treatment and are able to resume normal daily activities and return to work immediately following treatment.
Any discomfort that patients experience following the treatment may be treated using over-the-counter medication. Compression bandages or stockings may be used to alleviate any discomfort as well. Patients are encouraged to heed the recovery instructions of the vein specialist providing treatment to ensure proper healing.
Many patients are satisfied with their results after just one session of sclerotherapy, although some patients require multiple sessions to reach desired results. The number of sessions required is often determined by the depth of the veins, size of the veins and the number of veins being treated. Subsequent sclerotherapy sessions are usually spaced about four weeks apart to allow the results of the previous treatment to be evaluated.
In cases where sclerotherapy is used to treat varicose veins with negative medical side effects, insurance may cover its cost. However, in most cases, sclerotherapy is considered a cosmetic treatment and is not covered by insurance. Those with further questions about the cost of sclerotherapy and with other questions should contact a vein specialist in the Oneonta area.
