In order to ensure the success of your treatment it is essential you observe the following instructions.
- You are required to walk at a gentle pace immediately after the treatment and for at least 30 minutes each day for the next 2 weeks. Walking uses the calf muscles, reduces the pressure in the treated veins and can ease aching. Avoid power walking for 2 weeks after treatment. The combination of compression and walking minimises the risk of deep vein thrombosis and superficial thrombophlebitis (inflammation of the surface veins). Do not confine yourself to bed. Walking is not essential after standard sclerotherapy treatment of feeder and spider veins after the first 48 hours, but may assist in settling any discomfort felt in the leg after this time.
- Any cotton balls or dressings applied under the stocking can be removed 1-2 hours after your treatment.
- Maintain your normal daily activities but avoid standing still for long periods. If you have to sit for extended periods, please take time to walk, even if it is only around the room a few times. Elevate your legs when sitting if practical, particularly on the first day of treatment. Be sure to get adequate rest.
- Avoid rigorous activities (e.g. running, squash, high impact aerobics or heavy lifting) for the first 2 weeks after treatment. Mild to moderate exercise such as golf or an easy stationary bike ride is permitted. You can carry on with your normal work or home duties provided they are not strenuous. Pilates, Yoga etc should be avoided for 1 week.
- You may experience some pain and heaviness in the legs in the first few days after injection treatment and this may be more noticeable at night. It is not uncommon to experience some mild to moderate discomfort around the inner thigh for up to 3 weeks after EVLTTM and this normally starts on the third day. This is normal and is an early indication that the procedure is working as your body has commenced the process of absorbing the vein. If you are troubled by these symptoms, patients can take anti-inflammatory medication and go for a short walk. Should you develop indigestion whilst taking the tablets then stop them and take Panadol instead.
- Remove the stocking if it causes any discomfort in your foot or leg when sleeping. The stocking should be put on again after rising from bed. Do not cut the stocking and contact the Centre if problems persist.
- It is best to avoid leg waxing during the treatment period, although shaving the legs is fine.
- Precise written instructions for wearing the stocking will be given to you following the treatment.
- Review appointments will be organised as necessary. In general, sclerotherapy patients are reviewed at 4-6 weeks, and EVLTTMpatients are reviewed at 1 week.
- Please advise your doctor if you have any travel arrangements that have not already been discussed so that appropriate instructions can be given.
- Always bring your compression stockings to each appointment.
- Please contact the Vein & Laser Centre doctors if you have any questions or concerns about your treatment. Should you develop any of the serious symptoms such as soreness or swelling of the calf unrelieved by walking, shortness of breath, chest pain or other chest problems as this may be due to deep vein thrombosis. You should contact the Vein & Laser Centre immediately, or if the doctors at the Centre cannot be contacted go to hospital for immediate assessment.
