Superficial Thrombophlebitis: Blood Clots and Inflammation in the Superficial Veins
What is Superficial Thrombophlebitis?
Superficial thrombophlebitis (STP) refers to a combination of a blood clot and inflammation in a superficial vein of the body. Typically, patients with STP experience localized redness, tenderness, and swelling along the path of a vein in the superficial venous system. The affected vein often feels firm beneath the skin.
Risk factors for developing STP include injury to the affected area, varicose veins, prolonged immobility or travel, family history of abnormal blood clotting, hormone use, and tobacco use. Obesity, recent surgery, and pregnancy or postpartum state are also important risk factors. STP may also occur at the site of an IV infusion.
How is it different from a DVT?
While superficial thrombophlebitis can be quite painful, these superficial clots are usually not as dangerous as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The major difference between superficial clots and deep vein clots is their location in the body. Superficial veins lie close to the skin and are often visible from the surface, unlike veins in the deep venous system, which lie deeper and have a more direct connection to the heart and lungs. Blood clots in the deep vein system have the potential to be dislodged and travel to the lungs, causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism (PE). This risk is much lower for blood clots in the superficial venous system.
However, a superficial clot can sometimes extend into the deep system and become a DVT. In addition, it is not always possible to distinguish between a superficial clot and a DVT without further testing (for example, a duplex ultrasound study). For these reasons, if you think you are experiencing superficial thrombophlebitis, it is best to see your doctor to rule out DVT and other serious conditions like cellulitis.
How to prevent superficial thrombophlebitis
To help prevent superficial thrombophlebitis, stay active throughout the day. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. If you are sitting or standing for long periods, take frequent walking breaks and do frequent calf and ankle exercises. You also may benefit from wearing compression stockings to improve your circulation during prolonged sitting or standing.
Seeing a vein specialist to get varicose veins treated is another way to help prevent STP, because superficial blood clots are more likely to occur in unhealthy, varicose veins. Once you have had thrombophlebitis in a varicose vein, it is also more likely to recur.
How to treat superficial thrombophlebitis
Mild superficial thrombophlebitis is typically treated with an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Most of the time, prescription medications are not necessary. Compression stockings can be very helpful for STP occurring in the legs. Staying active with walking and your usual daily activities is recommended. Some people experiencing STP also benefit from leg elevation and applying warm compresses to the affected area.
When to seek medical care
Superficial thrombophlebitis can be painful but is not usually dangerous. However, it is strongly recommended that you see your doctor if you have signs/symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis. Your doctor can check for more serious conditions, including DVT, and recommend the best course of treatment for you.
Elmore Medical Vein & Laser Treatment Center is the premier vein specialty medical practice in the Central Valley. Dr. Mario H. Gonzalez and his staff offer years of experience and medical expertise that you won’t find anywhere else. Contact us to set up a consultation appointment.