Do superficial blood clots hurt?
Do superficial blood clots hurt?
You might also hear this called superficial phlebitis or superficial thrombophlebitis. It’s a blood clot in the vein just below the surface of your skin. It doesn’t usually get to your lungs, but superficial thrombophlebitis can be painful, and you may need treatment.
Where does superficial thrombophlebitis occur in the leg?
Most bouts of superficial thrombophlebitis occur in a leg vein. However, any superficial vein can be affected. A typical site is in a varicose vein in a leg. Varicose veins are common, particularly in pregnant women.
How long does it take for superficial thrombophlebitis to settle?
Superficial thrombophlebitis, often just referred to as ‘phlebitis’, is inflammation of a vein just under the skin, usually in the leg. A small blood clot also commonly forms in the vein, but is usually not serious. The condition usually settles and goes within 2-6 weeks. Treatments are available to ease pain or discomfort.
Are there any serious complications from superficial thrombophlebitis?
Complications from superficial thrombophlebitis are rare. However, if you develop DVT, the risk of serious complications increases. Complications might include: Pulmonary embolism. If part of a deep vein clot becomes dislodged, it can travel to your lungs, where it can block an artery (embolism) and become potentially life-threatening.
What is the difference between SIS and thrombophlebitis?
Phlebitis means inflammation of a vein. Thrombo (sis) means a blood clot in a vein. A vein is a blood vessel that takes blood towards the heart. If a vein becomes inflamed, a blood clot commonly forms inside the inflamed portion.
How do you treat thrombophlebitis?
Treatment of thrombophlebitis is primarily by administration of anticoagulant or fibrinolytic drugs, slight elevation of the affected leg, application of heat, elastic supports, and brief periods of walking to encourage circulation. Occasionally surgical treatment may be necessary.
How can you treat phlebitis at home?
Anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin or ibuprofen can help lessen the pain and inflammation of superficial phlebitis Make sure you check with your doctor first, though. If you increase your walking, you increase blood flow. This helps prevent blood clots from developing.
What is the medical treatment for superficial phlebitis?
Treatment for superficial phlebitis includes warm compresses and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen. Compression stockings may be helpful. If there is a skin infection associated with the superficial phlebitis, antibiotics may be prescribed.
Can superficial blood clots travel?
Yes, you can fly safely with a superficial vein. Yes, flying would be fine. However, I would get up and walk a little every couple of hours to help minimize the risk of blood clots. I would advise any patient to do this. That superficial vein will not be dangerous, nor will it predispose you to deep vein blood clots.