Thrombophlebitis
What is thrombophlebitis?
Thrombophlebitis is the inflammation of a leg vein caused by a blood clot (thrombus). The vein can either be close the surface of the skin (superficial thrombophlebitis) or in a deep vein (deep vein thrombosis).
What are the symptoms of thrombophlebitis?
The symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis are:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Tenderness and pain in the affected area
- Difficulty flexing your ankle
The symptoms of deep vein thrombosis are:
- Swelling
- Pain
What causes thrombophlebitis?
Thrombophlebitis is caused by a blood clot, which can be caused by:
- An injury to the vein
- Being sat down or immobile for long periods (e.g. if you are injured or in hospital)
- You have an inherited blood-clotting disorder
- Contraception (oestrogen) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Varicose veins can also cause thrombophlebitis as they can stretch the blood vessels too much, allowing blood to pool which can lead to blood clots.
Can thrombophlebitis be prevented?
Preventing thrombophlebitis relies on the prevention of blood clots forming. The following measures can help prevent this:
- On long flights or car journeys, wear loose-fitting clothing and take regular breaks to stretch and walk your legs. Whilst seated it is good to flex your ankles up and down and stay hydrated.
- Stop smoking
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a healthy diet, low in transgenic fats.
- If you have high cholesterol, take measures to reduce it.
How is thrombophlebitis treated?
The treatment will depend on the location, extent, symptoms and medical conditions of the patient. The main objective of the treatment is to mitigate pain and inflammation and prevent further thrombophlebitis from occurring in the future. Medicine to relieve swelling and pain may be given, and it is recommended that you elevate the leg. It is also recommended to apply a warm compress to the area for half an hour two to three times a day.
Additional treatment measures are:
- Compression stockings
- Varicose vein removal (a surgical procedure)
- Blood-thinning medication
Treating thrombophlebitis
By Professor Mark Whiteley
2024-04-25
Thrombophlebitis is a condition where veins, normally in the lower half of the body become inflamed due to the presence of a blood clot or clots. Professor Mark Whiteley talks about the treatment that is required for thrombophlebitis and what symptoms we should be seeking emergency treatment for. See more
Understanding thrombophlebitis
By Professor Mark Whiteley
2024-04-25
When someone has thrombophlebitis, blood clots within the vein and this irritates the vein wall. A thrombus or blood clot is formed in the vein and as part of the healing process, the vein wall becomes inflamed. Together these factors cause the vein to become hard, tender, red and hot. Professor Mark Whiteley tells us exactly what thrombophlebitis is and the different types that exist. See more
Wiggle the way out of uncomfortable varicose vein symptoms with expert treatment
By Mr Manj Gohel
2024-04-25
It's well known that varicose veins can look unsightly. However, what about other associated symptoms such as itching and swelling? Leading consultant vascular surgeon Mr Manj Gohel is here to highlight the condition and what can be done to ensure that treatment matches each patient's individual needs. See more
Superficial vein thrombosis: don’t suffer in vain!
By Mr Ian Franklin
2024-04-25
While most of us have heard of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), you may not have heard of a similar condition called superficial vein thrombosis (SVT). As their names suggest, DVT occurs in deep veins, while SVT forms closer to the skin. While generally less serious than its deeper counterpart, SVT is nonetheless something you shouldn’t ignore. Leading London vascular surgeon Mr Ian Franklin explains why. See more
Experts in Thrombophlebitis
-
Dr Omar Abu-Bakr
SurgeryExpert in:
- Varicose veins
- Thrombophlebitis
- Pelvic congestion syndrome
- Leg ulcers
- Spider veins (thread veins)
- Phlebectomy
- See all
- Most viewed diseases, medical tests, and treatments
- Peritoneal carcinomatosis
- Family history of breast cancer
- Cleft palate
- Robotic surgery
- FUE hair transplant
- Medicolegal
- CT scan (CAT)
- Diabetes
- Transient ischaemic attack (TIA)
- Tracheoesophageal fistula (TOF)