What is Superficial Thrombophlebitis?
Superficial thrombophlebitis (ST), also known as phlebitis, is an inflammation in a vein near the skin’s surface. The inflammation happens when a blot clot develops in the vein. Typically, this inflammation occurs in the legs.
In most instances, superficial thrombophlebitis isn’t severe. However, the condition can progress and develop into more serious complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Untreated DVT can increase the risk of stroke and other venous diseases. The vein experts at USA Vein Clinics can diagnose superficial thrombophlebitis and design a treatment plan to prevent complications.
Common Symptoms of Superficial Thrombophlebitis
Superficial thrombophlebitis is most common in the legs but sometimes develops in other body areas, such as the neck or arms, due to the location of blood vessels.
Symptoms may include:
- Tenderness, pain, and warmth of the affected area
- Redness and swelling of the affected area
- Changes to skin color around the affected vein
- Changes to the way the skin around the vein feels
- Hardening of the vein
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Superficial Thrombophlebitis Causes and Risk Factors
There are several possible causes linked to superficial thrombophlebitis. These include:
- Varicose veins
- An injection or IV into the vein
- Long periods of sitting or bed rest
- Blood clotting disorders
- Autoimmune conditions that involve the veins
- Cancer
- Certain medications
Superficial thrombophlebitis is also associated with a few known risk factors, including:
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
- Being over the age of 60
- Certain medications
Make an appointment with a medical provider if you have risk factors for clotting, superficial thrombophlebitis, or varicose veins. The vein professionals at USA Vein Clinics are experts on these vein conditions. Regular checkups at our clinics can help you prevent superficial thrombophlebitis and its potential complications.
Managing and Preventing Superficial Thrombophlebitis
There are various management options for superficial vein thrombosis. Possible methods might include:
- Anti-inflammatory creams and gels: Anti-inflammatory creams and gels can reduce swelling and alleviate localized pain by decreasing inflammation in the affected vein.
- Compression stockings: Compression stockings can help increase circulation and reduce leg swelling.
- Blood-thinning medications: Anticoagulants are medications that can help promote blood flow and lower the risk of blood clots.
While you plan for a consultation to confirm a diagnosis, home treatments such as warm compresses and keeping your legs elevated can also help reduce pain and other symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Attention & Diagnosis
Speak to a doctor to ensure that you are healthy and that your vein condition doesn’t lead to anything serious. USA Vein Clinics’ vein professionals can accurately diagnose superficial thrombophlebitis and rule out other conditions.
It’s important to seek urgent medical care if you suspect you have superficial thrombophlebitis and experience any of these symptoms:
- Increasing pain in the affected limb
- Increasing redness or darkening of the skin
- Sudden swelling
- Throbbing or cramping in the affected limb
- A fever
Risks of Superficial Thrombophlebitis
While superficial thrombophlebitis is usually not life-threatening, it can sometimes lead to serious complications, especially if left untreated. These risks are typically associated with blood clots that may develop and progress into more dangerous conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage vein disease and minimize risks.
Possible complications include:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Stroke
- Pulmonary embolism
- Blood clot formation
- Amputation
A medical professional like the vein experts at USA Vein Clinics can help you reduce the risk of complications from superficial vein thrombosis.
Superficial Thrombophlebitis Treatment
Modern vein treatments can be another option for superficial thrombophlebitis. These minimally invasive procedures use lasers, heat, and chemical injections to help resolve conditions that affect damaged veins.
The right treatment for you can depend on the severity and location of the affected veins. USA Vein Clinics offers a range of non-surgical vein treatments, and our doctors can help determine your best treatment plan
Treatments offered by USA Vein Clinics include:
- Endovenous Laser Vein Treatment (EVLT)
- ClariVein®
- Varithena
- Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy (USGS)
- VenaSeal™
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
- Visual Sclerotherapy
Our treatments are often covered by insurance and can provide relief for vein disease. Take the first step toward finding the right treatment by making an appointment online at one of our clinics near you or calling us at 888.768.3467.
FAQs
Can superficial thrombophlebitis go away on its own?
Superficial thrombophlebitis sometimes resolves on its own and without complications. Symptoms such as pain and swelling can go away in about two weeks, but hardness in the veins can linger for months. Even if painful symptoms resolve, it’s still recommended that an appointment with a medical professional be made.
How is superficial thrombophlebitis different from varicose veins?
It’s common for people to experience both of these vein conditions, but they are not the same. Varicose veins are bulging in the veins caused by damaged veins. Superficial thrombophlebitis is a blood clot in a vein close to the skin’s surface.
Can superficial thrombophlebitis cause a stroke?
Superficial thrombophlebitis rarely leads to a stroke. However, the condition can sometimes result in a DVT, and a DVT can lead to a stroke.