Thrombophlebitis: Should You Be Concerned?

Thrombophlebitis is a condition in which a blood clot forms in one of the body's veins. The clot usually forms as the result of an injury or infection to the vein that has weakened its walls. Typically, this occurs in the legs, but it can also form in the arms, neck, or abdomen. Generally, there are two forms of thrombophlebitis. Superficial thrombophlebitis occurs when the blood clot forms in a vein that runs close to the body's surface. This type is less serious and usually responds to medical treatment fairly quickly. Deep vein thrombosis is a more serious condition and can result in an often fatal pulmonary embolism, in which the clot breaks free and travels to the lungs.

In estimated 250,000-2,000,000 cases of thrombophlebitis or pulmonary embolism resulting from thrombophlebitis occur each year. Many of you may have known friends or family members who have suffered from this unexpected serious condition. Recently, attention has been given to the newfound link between thrombophlebitis and hormone therapy, as well as between thrombophlebitis and prolonged air-travel. But these are only two of the ways that this condition can occur.

So, how can you recognize this condition, and how can you prevent it from affecting you?

Image top: Close-up view of a patient showing symptoms of thrombophlebitis. The redness and swelling is visible in the affected leg.

Symptoms of Thrombophlebitis

• Redness, swelling and heat in the area of the vein
• A superficial vein appearing closer to the skin's surface than usual
• A vein that feels like a cord or hard rope
• Pain or discomfort over the involved area
• Discoloration or ulceration of the skin over a deep vein
• Fever

Seek medical attention if you have any of these symptoms, especially if you have a family history of blood clots. Also keep in mind that some people do not show symptoms of this condition, especially if the clot forms in a vein that is not in the leg or arm.

Treatment of Superficial Thrombophlebitis

• Prevent further injury to the vein
• Take NSAID's (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Apply warm, wet compresses to the area
• Rest and elevate the affected extremity
• If infection is involved, take antibiotics.

Superficial thrombophlebitis tends to heal over 1-2 weeks of treatment. During this time, the blood clot is absorbed by the body.

Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis

• Restrict activity: There is danger of the clot becoming dislodged and traveling to the lungs
• Elevate the extremity
• Don't touch!: Rubbing the affected area may cause the clot to dislodge
• Blood thinners: This may prevent the clot from getting any larger, allowing the body to begin absorbing it.
• Wear support stockings: This provides compression to the legs. Your doctor may even prescribe prescription strength support stockings if necessary.

Prevention
Even if you have a family history of thrombophlebitis, there are still things you can do to prevent blood clots from forming.

• Stay active: Take a walk every now and then, especially if you're flying or riding in a car.
• If you can't leave your seat, move your legs: Contract the muscles in your legs, bend and straighten your legs and ankles as often as your can.
• Prevent obesity: Keep yourself at a healthy weight. Work out, watch your diet, and avoid saturated fats.
• Don't smoke: Smoking raises your blood pressure, which increases the likelihood of arteriosclerosis and blood clots
• Control your high blood pressure: Have your blood pressure monitored regularly, and seek treatment if it becomes too high.
• Take aspirin: Aspirin is a blood thinner and helps prevent clots from forming.

For hypertension (high blood pressure):
+ http://www.healthybp.com
+ http://www.heartcenteronline.com

For high cholesterol:
+ http://www.heartcenteronline.com
+ http://www.aboutyourcholesterol.com