Are there any possible side effects to sclerotherapy?
Yes, they may include: Burning/stinging/itching at the injection sites; and or muscle cramps, which usually go away within 15-30 minutes. Swelling of the injection sites or of the feet or ankles may occur. This generally resolves in a few days. Areas of increased pigmentation (brown staining) may occur as a treated vein dissolves. This is usually due to iron depositing into the skin. Fortunately, pigmentation usually fades over a period of several months. However, this discoloration may remain permanent in a small percentage of cases. “Matting” is an overgrowth of fine caliber red veins near the areas of injection. This may occur in up to 30% of patients, however, most go away with time or with further sclerotherapy. Formation of small “burns” or ulcers, usually due to leakage of the chemical solution into the skin. These are more common when hyptertonic saline is used for the injection. They heal in time, but often leave a scar. Bruising is common and usually fades away within a week
