Does sclerotherapy treat varicose veins?

A clinician injects a sclerosing solution into a selected vein. The solution irritates the vein lining, causing the vessel to seal. Over time, the body absorbs the treated vein, while blood uses other nearby veins. The approach is commonly suited to smaller varicose veins and spider veins; larger, deeper, or complicated veins may need a different assessment or treatment.

The treated area can look bruised, feel tender, or show temporary inflammation. Several veins may be treated during one visit, but the number of sessions depends on the veins involved and how they respond.

A vascular clinician should examine your legs and assess circulation before recommending injections. Tell them about previous clots, medicines that affect bleeding, pregnancy, allergies, and skin problems near the treatment area. After treatment, walking is often encouraged, and compression may be advised for a period chosen by your clinician. Follow the specific instructions about bathing, exercise, and follow-up.

Contact your treatment team promptly if pain, swelling, redness, or warmth is worsening rather than settling, or if the treated skin changes colour markedly. Seek urgent care for sudden breathlessness, chest pain, coughing blood, or one-sided leg swelling and pain, because these symptoms can signal a serious circulation problem.

Ask which veins are suitable for sclerotherapy, what alternatives fit your circulation findings, how many visits may be needed, and which symptoms should prompt an urgent call after treatment.