12 Jul How To Treat Varicose Veins And Spider Veins With Sclerotherapy

Varicose veins and spider veins are two common types of vein abnormalities that can occur in the legs. Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that usually appear as bulging cords under the skin. They are caused by weakened or damaged vein walls and faulty valves, which allow blood to flow backward and pool in the veins. Varicose veins can cause symptoms such as pain, aching, swelling, and a heavy or tired feeling in the legs.

Spider veins, also known as telangiectasias, are smaller dilated blood vessels near the surface of the skin. They often appear as red, blue, or purple lines or clusters. They are caused by similar factors as varicose veins, such as weak vein walls and valve dysfunction, but they are smaller in size and not typically associated with significant symptoms. However, they can be a cosmetic concern for some individuals.

Both varicose veins and spider veins can be influenced by genetics, hormonal changes, age, pregnancy, prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, and lack of exercise. While they are not always a serious medical condition, they can cause discomfort and affect one’s self-esteem.
Varicose veins and spider veins can be caused by a combination of genetic predisposition, weak or damaged vein valves, and increased pressure in the veins.

The Top 7 Factors That Contribute To The Development of Varicose Veins And Spider Veins;

As discussed, here are some common factors that contribute to the development of varicose veins and spider veins:

1. Family history: A family history of varicose veins increases the likelihood of developing them. There is a genetic component that can make certain individuals more susceptible to weakened vein walls and valves.
2. Age: The risk of developing varicose veins and spider veins increases with age. As we get older, the veins may lose elasticity and become weaker, making them more prone to dilation and damage.
3. Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop varicose veins and spider veins. Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can contribute to the development of vein issues. Alos, female hormones tend to relax vein walls, making them more prone to stretching and damage.
4. Pregnancy: The hormonal changes and increased blood volume during pregnancy can lead to the development or worsening of varicose veins. The growing uterus also puts pressure on the veins in the pelvic area, which can affect blood flow and contribute to vein dilation.
5. Prolonged standing or sitting: Occupations or activities that involve long periods of standing or sitting can increase the pressure in the leg veins and contribute to the development of varicose veins. This is because when the leg muscles are inactive, they are less effective in pumping blood back to the heart, leading to pooling of blood in the veins.
6. Obesity: Excess weight puts added pressure on the veins, especially in the lower extremities, which can weaken the vein walls and valves over time.
7. Lack of exercise: Regular physical activity helps promote good circulation and strengthens the leg muscles that aid in blood flow. Lack of exercise can contribute to poor blood circulation and increase the risk of developing vein issues.

It’s important to note, while these factors can increase the likelihood of developing varicose veins and spider veins, they do not guarantee their occurrence. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and guidance on prevention and treatment options.

Zecca Cosmedical is a leading Australian clinic for non-surgical beauty and cosmetic treatments. If you are looking for help with your varicose or spider veins with Zecca every technique is fully approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration and is administered by university educated, medically trained and fully accredited experts.

Understanding Sclerotherapy: Treatment for Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat varicose veins and spider veins. It involves injecting a solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and fade from view. The solution, known as a sclerosing agent, irritates the inner lining of the vein, leading to the formation of scar tissue. Over time, the scar tissue causes the vein to close off and be absorbed by the body.

It is a minimally invasive procedure performed on an outpatient basis and does not require anaesthesia. The sclerosing agent is typically injected using a very fine needle, and multiple injections may be necessary depending on the size and number of veins being treated. After the injection, compression may be applied to the treated area to aid in the closure of the veins.

The procedure is commonly used for the treatment of spider veins and small to medium-sized varicose veins. Spider veins are small, dilated blood vessels near the surface of the skin that often appear as red, blue, or purple lines. Varicose veins, on the other hand, are enlarged and twisted veins that usually appear as bulging cords under the skin.

Sclerotherapy is generally well-tolerated, and the most common side effects are temporary and minor, such as bruising, itching, or slight discomfort at the injection site. Serious complications are rare but can include blood clots, allergic reactions to the sclerosing agent, and skin ulceration.

Will Sclerotherapy Work For You?

It’s important to note that sclerotherapy may not be suitable for everyone. A healthcare professional specialising in vein disorders, such as a vascular surgeon or dermatologist, or a medical professional at Zecca can evaluate your specific condition and determine if sclerotherapy is an appropriate treatment option for you.

Sclerotherapy is an effective treatment for varicose veins and spider veins in many cases. The success rate of sclerotherapy varies depending on factors such as the size and extent of the veins being treated, the skill and experience of the healthcare professional performing the procedure, and the individual’s response to treatment.

For spider veins, sclerotherapy is highly effective, with a success rate of 50% to 80% in completely eliminating or significantly reducing their appearance. Several treatment sessions may be required to achieve best results, particularly if there are numerous spider veins.

For larger varicose veins, sclerotherapy can also be effective, although the success rate may be lower compared to other treatment options such as endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Sclerotherapy may be used alone or in combination with these other procedures to achieve the best outcome.

It’s important to note that while sclerotherapy can effectively treat existing varicose veins and spider veins, it does not prevent the development of new ones. Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting, may help reduce the risk of new vein issues.

Does Sclerotherapy Hurt?

It may cause some discomfort or pain, but it is generally well-tolerated by most individuals. The level of pain or discomfort experienced during the procedure can vary depending on factors such as your pain threshold, the size and location of the veins being treated, and the technique used by the healthcare professional.

During the procedure, you may feel a mild burning or stinging sensation at the injection site as the sclerosing agent is being injected into the vein. This sensation is usually temporary and subsides quickly. Some individuals describe it as similar to a mosquito bite or a small pinch.

In most cases, the discomfort associated with sclerotherapy is minimal and does not require anaesthesia. However, if you have a low pain threshold or are particularly sensitive to pain, your healthcare professional may offer a local anaesthetic to numb the area before the injections.
After the procedure, you may experience some tenderness, bruising, or itching around the treated veins. These side effects are typically mild and temporary, resolving within a few days to a few weeks.

It’s important to communicate with your healthcare professional throughout the procedure and let them know if you experience any significant pain or discomfort. They can make adjustments as needed to ensure your comfort during the treatment.

Remember that individual experiences can vary, and some people may have a higher tolerance for pain or find the procedure more uncomfortable than others. If you have concerns about the potential pain or discomfort associated with sclerotherapy, it’s best to discuss them with your healthcare professional beforehand. They can provide you with more specific information based on your unique circumstances.

If you are looking at treating your varicose veins and spider veins with sclerotherapy, the team at Zecca. With Zecca’s expert consultation and care you can access the best in non-surgical cosmedical treatments. Zecca’s experienced medical team provides a wide range of cosmetic medical treatments throughout Sydney and regional NSW. Book an appointment today!