Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat varicose veins and spider veins. It involves injecting a solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to collapse and eventually fade from view. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessels, leading to their closure and reabsorption by the body.
The procedure is typically performed in a doctor's office and does not require anesthesia. Patients may experience mild discomfort or swelling, but serious side effects are rare. After treatment, patients are usually advised to wear compression stockings to support the healing process and improve results.