Exercise and proper weight control, as well as avoiding tight garters and other upper leg constricting garments, help maintain proper blood flow. About 300,000 Americans are hospitalized each year because of deep thrombophlebitis, the major danger being that a portion of the clot will break away and travel through the venous system to the lungs, forming a pulmonary embolism. If one of the large pulmonary vessels is blocked, death may result. Superficial phlebitis is most likely to develop in people with varicose veins, patients who are bedridden, or in pregnant women. The discomfort is usually eased when the leg is elevated and worsened when it is lowered.
Deep thrombophlebitis is more likely to cause pain, tenderness, and swelling of the entire limb.
Unfortunately, deep thrombophlebitis may occur without producing symptoms until a pulmonary embolism signals its presence. If your doctor suspects deep thrombophlebitis, he or she may recommend a Doppler ultrasound test to determine if a clot exists and to confirm its location. Bed rest with the leg elevated may be necessary. Anticoagulant drugs may be prescribed for up to several months to prevent recurrence. If these drugs are used for long-term treatment, patients are cautioned not to take any other medication, especially aspirin, that may interact with them.