Veins FAQ 1
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is the treatment of Varicose Veins or Spider Veins by injecting them with a medication that irritates the blood vessels, causing them to be reabsorbed by the body.
2. Why does Sclerotherapy work?
The solution acts by irritating the inner vein walls so that they grow together and heal, forming scar tissue. Gradually, this becomes reabsorbed by the body.
3. Aren’t these veins needed?
Varicosities (varicose veins) and Telangiectasia (spider veins) are not functioning normally or efficiently, and your body has already established an alternate system of healthy vessels for the blood to flow through. The circulatory system does not miss the compromised veins and can actually be improved as a result of sclerotherapy.
4. What causes Varicose Veins & Spider Veins?
Varicose Veins & Spider Veins can be hereditary—if your mother has them, you could, too. Prolonged standing, such as at work, places increased stress on the blood vessels and valves, weakening them. Similar stress on veins is caused by overweight or pregnancy, with its increased blood volume. Hormonal changes accompanying pregnancy and menopause relax valves in the veins, and aging causes loss of elasticity and weakening of vein walls and valves. Trauma can lead to compromised veins.
5. Why do you treat Spider Veins?
Many of our patients had stopped wearing shorts because of unsightly veins, and now feel more confident when wearing clothes that reveal their legs. Legs cleared of spider veins can appear more youthful.
Other Articles & Links:
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"Varicose Veins and Spider Veins" (pdf) from National Women's Health Information Center
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New York Times, "Removing the Web of Spider Veins" October 10, 2009
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Photo Gallery (Before & After Photos of Dr. Schick's Patients)
