About Thrombophlebitis

Thrombophlebitis is swelling in a vein or veins, caused by a blood clot. Usually it occurs in the legs, but can also take place in the neck or arms.

Often, thrombophlebitis is the result of lying or sitting in one position too long, such as on a long ride while on a trip, or when hospitalized for some time.

This condition can be serious, because of the danger presented when a clot is dislodged. Clots can travel through the vein and block an artery, causing conditions such as pulmonary embolism or stroke.

Symptoms and Precautionary Measures

Many times there will be swelling, tenderness and redness in the area of the affected vein. The individual may have trouble walking or standing. Sometimes there may be fever. Any of these symptoms should prompt a doctor visit. If there is shortness of breath or fever with noticeably enlarged veins, the person should report to an emergency room immediately for treatment.

In some cases of deep vein thrombosis, there may be no symptoms at all. Thus it is always best to take precautions during long trips or other situations where there may be risk to develop this condition. During car trips, stop to walk periodically and exercise the legs. When on a long plane trip, move the legs, wear support hose, and always make sure to drink plenty of fluids.

Commonly, hospitals are now acutely aware of the possibilities for patients developing thrombophlebitis and take precautions against it through stimulation devices and, when possible, walking and exercising the patient. Intravenous lines must also be changed routinely, as iv patients are also at higher risk for thrombophlebitis.

Diagnosis

Appearance of the veins will often suggest thrombophlebitis. Further possible tests include Doppler ultrasound, venography, and blood coagulation study.

On physical examination, the doctor will check pulse, circulation, blood pressure and temperature, as well as the overall condition of the skin.

Treatment

There are some self-care steps that can be taken by an individual with thrombophlebitis. These include putting the affected leg up on a footstool, applying moist heat to the area, and taking over the counter anti-inflammatories. Support hose may be recommended, or the doctor may prescribe special prescription-strength hose.

In cases where the thrombosis is in a deep vein, the physician may prescribe heparin, or other blood-thinning medication. A stronger anticoagulant, warfarin, may be given in some cases. The patient taking warfarin must be monitored closely as it is a very powerful medication which can have major side effects. In many cases, the individual on warfarin will be sent to a special warfarin medical clinic periodically, for the purpose of testing and monitoring for proper dosage of the drug.

Some patients are unable to take blood thinners, and in these cases a filter may be placed in the vena cava, the main abdominal vein. Usually the filter will remain there permanently.

In some cases, varicose vein removal can be done to remove painful veins. Most times this is done through a series of small incisions and the procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis.

If a clot in the abdomen or pelvis remains persistently blocked, the patient may require surgery to bypass the vein. Or a less invasive procedure called angioplasty may be done to open the vein with a mesh tube called a stent.

If treated promptly, thrombophlebitis need not present lifelong challenges. Remember that prevention is key.

Sources:

www.mayoclinic.com/health/thrombophlebitis/DS00223

www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/deepveinthrombosis.html