WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is superficial thrombophlebitis? Superficial thrombophlebitis (STP) is inflammation of your superficial veins caused by a blood clot. The superficial veins are blood vessels just under the skin. This condition most often appears in the legs, but may also occur in the arms. What causes STP? STP may be caused by a blood clot in one or more veins. STP may also be caused by bacteria, a virus, or a fungus. What increases my risk for STP? - Older age, especially if you are older than 60
- Inactivity, such as when you sit or stand for several hours each day
- A history of blood vessel problems, such as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Procedures such as sclerotherapy or intravenous (IV) injections
- Pregnancy or medical conditions, such as cancer or an immune system disease
- Obesity or tobacco use
- Certain medicines, such as birth control pills
What are the signs and symptoms of STP? - Red, swollen, tender skin over the veins
- Thick veins seen just under the skin
- Fever
How is STP diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will ask about your health history and examine you. You may need any of the following: - Blood tests: Your blood may be tested to show a blood clot.
- Doppler ultrasound: A Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves to show pictures on a monitor. An ultrasound may be done to show blood clots.
How is STP treated? - Medicines:
- Acetaminophen: This medicine decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- NSAIDs: These medicines decrease swelling, pain, and fever. NSAIDs are available without a doctor's order. Ask your healthcare provider which medicine is right for you. Ask how much to take and when to take it. Take as directed. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding and kidney problems if not taken correctly.
- Blood thinners
help prevent blood clots. Examples of blood thinners include heparin and warfarin. Clots can cause strokes, heart attacks, and death. The following are general safety guidelines to follow while you are taking a blood thinner: - Watch for bleeding and bruising while you take blood thinners. Watch for bleeding from your gums or nose. Watch for blood in your urine and bowel movements. Use a soft washcloth on your skin, and a soft toothbrush to brush your teeth. This can keep your skin and gums from bleeding. If you shave, use an electric shaver. Do not play contact sports.
- Tell your dentist and other healthcare providers that you take anticoagulants. Wear a bracelet or necklace that says you take this medicine.
- Do not start or stop any medicines unless your healthcare provider tells you to. Many medicines cannot be used with blood thinners.
- Tell your healthcare provider right away if you forget to take the medicine, or if you take too much.
- Warfarin is a blood thinner that you may need to take. The following are things you should be aware of if you take warfarin.
- Foods and medicines can affect the amount of warfarin in your blood. Do not make major changes to your diet while you take warfarin. Warfarin works best when you eat about the same amount of vitamin K every day. Vitamin K is found in green leafy vegetables and certain other foods. Ask for more information about what to eat when you are taking warfarin.
- You will need to see your healthcare provider for follow-up visits when you are on warfarin. You will need regular blood tests. These tests are used to decide how much medicine you need.
- Procedures: Your healthcare provider may inject a liquid to close the vein. The vein may be tied off to stop blood from flowing through it. Surgery to remove veins may also be done. Ask your healthcare provider for information about these procedures.
What are the risks of STP? The blood clot may break off and travel to your lungs, heart, or brain. This can cause life-threatening problems, such as a pulmonary embolus (PE), heart attack, or stroke. How can I manage my symptoms? - Pressure stockings: These are long, tight stockings that put pressure on your legs to promote blood flow and prevent clots.
- Exercise: Walking will help improve blood flow and decrease inflammation. Do not stand or sit for long periods of time, because the blood will pool in your legs. Walk around 5 minutes for every hour that you sit or stand in one place. Ask your healthcare provider about the best exercise plan for you.
- Heat: Heat helps decrease pain and improves blood flow. Apply heat on the area for 20 to 30 minutes every 2 hours for as many days as directed.
- Elevate: Raise your leg or arm above the level of your heart as often as you can. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your leg or arm on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Ask your healthcare provider how much you should weigh. Ask him to help you create a weight loss plan if you are overweight.
- Do not smoke: If you smoke, it is never too late to quit. Ask for information about how to stop smoking if you need help.
Where can I find more information? - American Academy of Family Physicians
11400 Tomahawk Creek Parkway
Leawood , KS 66211-2680
Phone: 1- 913 - 906-6000
Phone: 1- 800 - 274-2237
Web Address: http://www.aafp.org
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - Your symptoms return after treatment.
- Your symptoms keep you from your daily activities.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
When should I seek immediate care or call 911? - Your leg or arm turns pale or blue.
- Your leg or arm becomes hot or cold.
- Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
- You feel lightheaded, short of breath, and have chest pain.
- You cough up blood.
|