Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center

3 Questions About Sclerotherapy Treatment, Answered

Because sclerotherapy is an effective non-surgical therapy that has been improved over nearly a century of use, it remains the standard treatment for spider veins and smaller varicose veins. There are multiple types of sclerotherapy treatments available, but they all work by the same method of causing veins to collapse using injectable saline solution. If you are considering this treatment for your varicose and spider veins, here are some answers to questions that you may have:

1. Does sclerotherapy hurt? Sclerotherapy uses small needles for the injection of the liquid or foam solution that enters the veins. The injections are relatively painless, and they can be given with a topical anesthetic to further improve patient comfort. After the sclerosing agent has been injected under the skin, there may be some slight discomfort, but this will fade quickly.
2. How long does it take to see results? The results from sclerotherapy will improve gradually for several weeks after the initial treatment takes place. Larger veins may require multiple treatment sessions, but there will still be significant improvement after the first round of sclerotherapy. As the saline solution within the veins travels through them, it causes the vein walls to become sticky. Eventually, the vein will seal itself shut so that blood flow must be rerouted to healthier veins.
3. Are there any side effects to treatment? Sclerotherapy is a safe procedure that works efficiently in a majority of patients. Because the skin is being penetrated during the procedure, there is a small chance for infection, but this can be prevented with proper cleaning and sanitization procedures prior to treatment. Sclerotherapy can be combined with other varicose vein treatments with no adverse effects.

To explore your options for sclerotherapy and other varicose vein treatments, visit Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center. Contact us online or call (407) 293-5944 to learn how we can help restore your confidence in wearing shorts, skirts, and beach wear.

An Animated View of Varicose Vein Formation

Varicose veins are caused by poor circulation, and because they are more likely to develop under the pressure of gravity, varicose veins are most often seen on the legs. With this video, you can see exactly how problematic varicose veins form over time. The veins need to pump blood back to the heart, and they do this through muscle contractions within the legs. Through regular daily activities, the vein walls can become weakened, effectively moving blood less efficiently. Blood will accumulate within the weakened veins so they begin to bulge out just under the skin.

If you have developed varicose veins on your legs and you want to see them disappear, find out how laser vein closure and sclerotherapy can help at Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center. Contact us online or call (407) 293-5944 to make your first appointment in our office.

What Is Venastat and Can It Help Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins can be treated in a number of ways, including with conservative treatment options that can relieve the associated symptoms of varicose veins. The use of herbal supplements such as Venestat is one therapy of this nature that has had positive results for many patients experiencing the swelling, pain, and general discomfort that often accompanies varicose veins. Venestat may be used on its own or in combination with more advanced treatments, depending on the preferences and needs of the individual patient.

A closer look at Venestat

Venestat is a seed extract from the horse chestnut tree, and it is intended for the short-term relief of varicose veins. It works by improving circulation within the legs, which relieves symptoms related to water retention, such as swelling. Patients who do take Venestat for varicose veins often note that it offers relief of pain, fatigue, and itching in the legs. Venestat will not cause significant improvement in the appearance of varicose veins, as it cannot treat varicose veins that have already developed.

Talking to your doctor about herbal supplements

Any time you use an herbal supplement like Venestat, you should consult your physician for proper use instructions and complementary treatments. You might use Venestat in conjunction with other varicose vein treatments, as this allows you to see a visual improvement in your condition as well as find relief from related symptoms. When you do ask your doctor about including this herbal supplement in your treatment, be sure to list any medications you are currently taking so that harmful interactions can be avoided.

At Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center, we can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan for your varicose veins that includes advanced medical technologies and conservative holistic therapies to fit your needs. Schedule a consultation with us today by calling (407) 293-5944 or visiting our website.

Fight Venous Issues At Home with These Quick Resources

If you notice the early signs of varicose veins and other venous conditions, schedule a consultation with Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center. Contact us online or call (407) 293-5944 to get a look at what we can do for your venous health.

• Understand what Yerba Mate can do for your circulatory health with this article from FitDay.com.
• UMM.edu offers an overview of arnica, an herbal remedy that could alleviate some symptoms of venous insufficiency.
• Visit SIRWeb.org for a look at what happens to the veins when they are affected by venous insufficiency.
• See what you can expect from your varicose vein treatment at SkinCarePhysicians.com.
• Learn why ultrasound is beneficial in diagnosing venous insufficiency by reading this article from RadiologyInfo.org.

Less Obvious Symptoms of Venous Insufficiency

Spider veins and varicose veins are not the only signs of venous insufficiency that you should be aware of. These two symptoms are often referred to as cosmetic problems, but they can actually be associated with serious issues that can affect your overall health. Below is a look at some of the lesser-known signs of venous insufficiency that you should discuss with your doctor.

• Swelling and heaviness of the legs: The circulatory system is part of the body’s natural drainage system. Therefore, when it is not working to effectively carry away fluids from the lower body, inflammation can occur. You might notice that you feel tightness in the legs or heaviness that can worsen with extended periods of inactivity.
• Pain or stinging sensation in the skin: When you rest at night, you might find it hard to relax because of pain or tingling in the legs. Temporary relief can be found from walking or changing position, but this may not be ideal when you are trying to get to sleep.
• Discoloration in the skin on the lower leg: Changes in skin texture and color are not uncommon to venous conditions, particularly in the ankles and feet. You might see skin that is darkened or even purple in color, and this may be accompanied by skin dryness or loss of sensation. Ulcers can also develop, and they may go unnoticed if you have decreased sensation in the ankles or feet.
• Red dots on the legs: Venous hypertension (increased blood pressure in the veins) can cause dots to appear anywhere on the legs. The dots are not raised and are not typically associated with any changes in sensation where they appear.

If you have noticed any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with the vein experts at Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center. Contact us for a complete look at our treatment options by calling (407) 293-5944 or visiting our website.