Sclerotherapy

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

• Care notes
• Ambulatory
• Discharge
• Español

AMBULATORY CARE:

Sclerotherapy

is a procedure used to treat spider veins and varicose veins. Varicose veins are usually in the legs and are enlarged and twisted. During sclerotherapy, a chemical solution is injected into the vein. This causes the vein to irritate and swell, then scar. The scarring forces the blood to travel through different, healthier veins. The varicose vein then fades.

How to prepare for sclerotherapy:

• Your provider will tell you how to prepare. The procedure usually takes about one hour or less. You will be able to drive yourself home.
• Tell your provider about all the medicines you currently take. Your provider will tell you if you need to stop any medicine for the procedure, and when to stop. Your provider will tell you which medicines to take or not take on the day of surgery.
• Tell your provider about any allergies you have, including to medicines.
• Your provider will tell you if you need any tests before the procedure, and when to have them.

What will happen during sclerotherapy:

• Your provider may use an ultrasound to clearly see the vein that needs treatment. An ultrasound uses sound waves to show pictures on a monitor. Your provider will use a small needle to slowly inject the solution into your vein. You may feel stinging or burning when the solution goes into your vein. You may feel cramping if the vein is larger, but these symptoms are temporary.
• When the needle is removed, a compression bandage or compression stocking is applied. This helps keep pressure on the area. This process is repeated for each vein to be treated.

What to expect after sclerotherapy:

• You may need to walk around for 10 to 15 minutes right after the procedure. This helps keep blood flowing and prevents clots. You may need to wear compression stockings for 24 to 48 hours straight. Then, wear them during the day only for 7 to 14 days, removing them at night.
• Redness at the injection site should fade within a few days. Small veins should fade within about 6 weeks. Larger veins may take up to 4 months. You may feel a dull ache or pressure for up to 3 days after the procedure. You should have minimal or no bleeding.

Risks of sclerotherapy:

• You may have redness, swelling, bruising, or itching. You may develop sores or tiny red veins at the injection site. You may see increased hair growth in the area. You may develop skin discoloration such as brown lines or spots. The varicose or spider veins may not go away completely. The chemical solution may damage the surrounding tissue and cause a serious wound.
• You may have an allergic reaction to the chemical solution. Tiny air bubbles might collect in your blood. This can cause headaches, fainting, nausea, or flashes in your eyes. A blood clot may form in a treated vein. If the blood clot moves to a deeper vein in your leg, or to your lungs, it can be life threatening. If the blood clot travels to your brain, it can cause a stroke.

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US):

• You suddenly feel lightheaded and short of breath.
• Your throat feels swollen and you have trouble breathing.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Seek care immediately if:

• You have severe pain or swelling.
• Your leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.

Call your doctor if:

• You have new dark or discolored skin patches around the injection site.
• You have swelling near your groin.
• Your skin is itchy, swollen, or you have a rash.
• You have small open sores at the injection site.
• You see red streaks in your groin.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Medicines:

You may need the following:

• Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Care for the injection site as directed:

Wash the injection site with mild soap and lukewarm water.

Self-care:

• Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs unless your doctor says it is okay.
• Do not take hot showers, baths, or sit in a sauna or hot tub for 2 days. The heat can make your veins swell and slow the healing process. You can shower or bathe, but make sure the water is lukewarm.
• Walk every day for 30 minutes if you can. Break it up into 10-minute sessions throughout the day if you need to. Avoid heavy lifting, running, or intense workouts for 1 week to prevent irritation and swelling.
• Drink liquids as directed. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you. Staying hydrated helps keep blood flowing well through your veins. This helps prevent blood clots.
• Do not apply lotion or shave your legs until the injection site heals. This will prevent infection and irritation.
• Avoid direct sunlight and do not use tanning beds. Sun exposure can cause brown spots or lines on your skin and slow down the healing process. To protect your skin, use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, or wear pants if you go outside.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer