As an increasing number of foreigners travel to Lithuania to receive the procedure, this blog post covers some of the most frequent questions posed to the medical professionals of the Health Tourism Lithuania network.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure valued for its safety and effectiveness in eliminating varicose, reticular and spider veins. Originated in the 1930s, the method is carried out by injecting foam or liquid via a tiny needle or a catheter. Once the substance has been injected, it causes the vein to swell and stick together. Blood then has to find its way through other veins, while the local tissue reabsorbs the swollen vein, making it fade with time.
The needed amount of injections varies among patients depending on the degree of vein varicose.
Who Is the Procedure for?
To know if sclerotherapy is right for you, always refer to a qualified vascular surgeon. The method is never applied for pregnant women, while former sufferers of blood clotting are to be considered carefully, taking the overall patient’s health and the reason behind blood clots into account.
What Are the Effects?
In most cases, small spider veins fade in three to six weeks after sclerotherapy, while larger veins may take three to four months to dissolve. Once veins respond to the treatment, they don’t reappear.
Possible side effects, such as itching, bruising, brown lines or spots, can occur and last from several days to a few months. In case of inflammation or swelling of the leg, the patient should immediately contact his doctor.
Before and After Treatment
Before sclerotherapy, it is important to disclose any recent medical conditions or allergies, and medications you take to your doctor. If you are taking aspirin or other blood thinners, the doctor will instruct you to pause on that to minimize bleeding during and after the procedure. It is best to wear loose and comfortable trousers or a skirt to the appointment and avoid tight socks that might impede blood circulation.
After the treatment, medical experts usually recommend avoiding anti-inflammatory drugs to prevent excessive bleeding. For the same reason, you should avoid activities that increase blood pressure, such as saunas, hot baths, and hot showers. Light exercises as walking are encouraged, as well as resuming your regular daily activities. Also, you will have to wear specialized elastic socks for four weeks after the procedure.
