Varicose veins: Questions, Answers, and the possibility of treatment with Asclera
Many of us suffer from varicose veins. Often unsightly and associated with all the negative aspects of aging, varicose veins usually pop up on the lower legs and feet. Basically, “varicose” means “enlarged” or “swollen.” When the valves in veins cease to function optimally, blood that normally travels through your veins on the way back to your heart may collect. The reason for undue attention to the legs and feet can be ascribed to our old friend, gravity. He gets us every time!
For smaller varicose veins like spider veins (1 mm or less in diameter) and reticular veins (1 to 3 mm in diameter), a minimally invasive procedure exists called Asclera. In a sclerotherapy procedure, the prescription medicine Asclera is injected into the affected veins.
The sclerosing agent in Asclera works by damaging the inside lining of the veins–also called the endothelium. This damage causes blood platelets to form on the walls of the vein, which will eventually cause the vessel to clot. Over time, your body will heal itself and the clotted vein will be replaced with tissue.
The Asclera session typically lasts 15 to 45 minutes. One injection usually will cover an inch of the affected vein with multiple injections per session.
Your doctor may suggest wearing compression stockings following the procedure. You also should avoid the following after an Asclera session: heavy exercise, tanning, long plane trips, and hot baths or sauna trips.
Dr. Herrold can of course treat larger and more serious vein issues. Asclera is a minimally invasive procedure that is only recommended for smaller varicose veins. You might suffer from more severe swelling, and in that case, feel free to come on in and ask questions! You don’t have to bear the burden of painful and uncomfortable varicose veins.
Posted: January 19th, 2012 under Ancillary Services, Asclera.
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