Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure for addressing varicose and spider veins, involving the injection of a solution that causes the vein to close. A common side effect is the formation of trapped blood within treated veins. This is a known and manageable occurrence, part of the body’s natural response to the procedure.
Understanding Trapped Blood After Sclerotherapy
Trapped blood after sclerotherapy refers to coagulated blood that remains within a vein intentionally closed by the injected sclerosing agent. This occurs because the solution irritates the vein lining, causing vessel walls to stick together and seal shut. As the vein collapses, residual blood inside can clot and become “trapped” within the newly sealed segment. This phenomenon is a normal aspect of the healing process.
Trapped blood typically manifests as dark, firm lumps or discolored areas under the skin along the treated vein. These may appear as reddish-brown spots, dark blue lines, or tender lumps. Patients often experience tenderness, discomfort, or lumpiness in the affected region. These symptoms usually indicate the body’s process of absorbing the treated vein and its contents.
Professional Methods for Trapped Blood Removal
Medical professionals address trapped blood through drainage or evacuation. This technique involves making a small incision or a tiny needle puncture into the area of trapped blood. Through this opening, the clotted blood is gently expressed or aspirated, providing immediate relief from discomfort and improving cosmetic appearance. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare provider a few weeks after the initial sclerotherapy session, once the blood has solidified sufficiently.
Draining trapped blood offers several benefits. It can help prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a temporary skin darkening caused by iron from red blood cells. Removing clotted blood reduces iron, potentially leading to quicker resolution of discoloration. Professional drainage can also accelerate the overall healing process of the treated vein. This procedure should only be carried out by a medical professional to ensure proper technique and to minimize risks.
Self-Care and When to Consult a Professional
Self-care measures can help manage symptoms at home. Continued use of compression stockings, as advised, improves circulation and reduces swelling. Elevating the treated leg, especially when resting, can also aid in reducing discomfort and promoting fluid drainage. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can alleviate tenderness and pain. Applying warm compresses to the area, if recommended by your physician, may also provide comfort and assist the body in absorbing the trapped blood.
It is important to avoid attempting to drain or manipulate trapped blood at home. Such actions can introduce bacteria, leading to infection, or cause scarring and improper healing of the treated area. Patients should consult their medical professional if they experience signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, significant pain, or pus draining from the site. Other reasons to seek medical attention include severe or worsening pain not relieved by medication, persistent swelling, or if the lumps are not resolving on their own within several weeks.