Thrombophlebitis
Thrombophlebitis is swelling of a vein caused by a blood clot. It usually occurs in your legs. If the affected vein is just beneath the skin, the condition is usually not dangerous. A clot in a deeper vein, called deep vein thrombosis, can break loose and cause a serious problem in the lung, called a pulmonary embolism, or a heart attack or stroke.
Sitting still for a long time can make you more likely to get thrombophlebitis. Some medicines and disorders that increase your risk for blood clots can also lead to thrombophlebitis. Common symptoms are
- Warmth and tenderness over the vein
- Pain or swelling in the part of the body affected
- Skin redness
Treatment includes medicines to ease pain and inflammation, break up clots and keep new clots from forming. Keeping the affected area raised and applying moist heat can also help. If you are taking a long car or plane trip, take a break, walk or stretch your legs and drink plenty of liquids.
Thrombophlebitis on Wikipedia
'''Thrombophlebitis''' is phlebitis (vein inflammation) related to a blood clot or thrombus.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Thrombophlebitis is related to a blood clot (thrombus) in the vein. Risk factors include prolonged sitting and disorders related to blood clotting. Specific disorders associated with thrombophlebitis include superficial thrombophlebitis (affects veins near the skin surface) and deep venous thrombosis (affects deeper, larger veins).
Symptoms
The following symptoms are often associated with thrombophlebitis:
* tenderness over the vein
* pain in the part of the body affected
* skin redness or inflammation (not always present)
* swelling (edema) of the extremities (ankle and foot)
* intermittent claudication
Signs and tests
The health care provider makes the diagnosis primarily based on the appearance of the affected area. Frequent checks of the pulse, blood pressure, temperature, skin condition, and circulation may be required.
If the cause is not readily identifiable, tests may be performed to determine the cause, including the following:
* Doppler ultrasound
* Extremity arteriography
* Blood coagulation studies
Treatment
For more specific recommendations, see the particular condition. In general, treatment may include the following:
* Medications
** analgesics (pain medications)
** anticoagulants or blood thinners to prevent new clot formation
** thrombolysis to dissolve an existing clot
** nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation
** antibiotics (if infection is present)
** Support stockings and wraps to reduce discomfort
The patient may be advised to do the following:
* Elevate the affected area to reduce swelling.
* Keep pressure off of the area to reduce pain and decrease the risk of further damage.
* Apply moist heat to reduce ... [ Read More ]
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