Elevate the affected area to reduce swelling . Keep pressure off of it to reduce pain and decrease the risk of further damage. Apply moist heat to reduce inflammation and pain. Surgical removal, stripping, or bypass of the vein is rarely needed, but it may be recommended in some situations. Thrombophlebitis and other forms of phlebitis usually respond to prompt medical treatment.
Complications are rare, but when they occur they can be serious.
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate thrombophlebitis may be present. Also call promptly if symptoms worsen or if new symptoms occur, such as an entire limb becoming pale , cold, or swollen, or if chills and fever develop. This picture shows deep vein thrombosis with phlebitis in the leg. Note the swelling and discoloration of the left leg. This picture shows deep venous thrombosis with phlebitis in the right forefoot.