Thrombophlebitis and Thrombosis Treatment

Deep vein thrombosis is a blockage of the deep venous system by a blood clot. Thrombophlebitis is a blockage or occlusion of superficial, often varicose, veins.

Risk Factors for Thrombosis

• Acute infections accompanied by prolonged fever, immobilization (bed rest), etc.
• Injuries or fractures (wearing casts, metal implants, prolonged limb immobilization)
• Insufficient fluid intake or an imbalance between fluid loss and intake (e.g., intense workouts without drinking enough)
• Taking hormonal medications
• Excess weight
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Existing varicose veins without preventive measures (avoiding compression garments)
• Long trips and flights

The main risk factor for developing thrombosis remains existing varicose veins (which "don't hurt" yet), as well as lymphedema or a tendency toward it. If one of the above factors is added, a vessel can become blocked by a clot, and in the worst case the clot can migrate through the bloodstream, causing a life-threatening condition — pulmonary embolism.

Signs That Should Prompt You to See a Vascular Surgeon or Get an Ultrasound

• Sharp pain in the lower limb — sudden, or when trying to stand on the limb
• Pronounced asymmetric swelling of the lower leg (less often the lower leg and thigh)
• Areas of redness and inflammation on the leg forming "streaks"
• Redness and hardening of a varicose vein or veins

Never

• Rub or massage the limb, or knead areas of hardening or swelling — there is a risk of dislodging or shifting soft thrombotic masses
• Use heat treatments, heating pads, or hot baths

Do

• Limit strain on the limb
• If possible, apply an elastic bandage (from the toes to the groin) on the affected limb, or put on a compression stocking if you have one
• Take a pain reliever or anti-inflammatory
• If needed, gently apply an anti-inflammatory gel to the reddened area
• See a vascular surgeon or phlebologist for an ultrasound scan, to locate the clot and determine treatment