Later, other anticoagulants are administered orally. Anticoagulant treatment may need to be continued from two to six months. If an embolus develops, surgery may be necessary to prevent further emboli. Superficial venous thrombosis is usually treated with painkillers, heat, and elevation of the limb. If swelling or other complications develop after deep vein thrombosis, the patient should wear support stockings during waking hours for his or her lifetime.
Some persons are more likely than others to develop venous thrombosis.
Before surgery is performed, the patient should do special calf and leg exercises. After surgery, he or she should resume physical activity as soon as possible. Such measures reduce the likelihood of venous thrombosis.