What is thrombophlebitis or phlebitis?
It is the inflammation of the vein due to a blood clot known as Thrombophlebitis.
The phlebitis can be superficial in the skin, or deep, in the tissues beneath the skin.
Which age group is more affected?
Mainly the 30 to 40 years of age group are more affected.
Both genders are equally affected due to this.
What are the types of thrombophlebitis?
Deep vein thrombosis
It affects deeper veins and larger veins.
A red, engorged, cord-like vein, associated with localized swelling, pain or tenderness.
Superficial thrombophlebitis
It affects the veins that are near the skin’s surface.
In this type, there is generalized swelling, warmth, and redness in the affected part.
There is a distension of superficial veins.
The cyanosis of toes and limbs it can some be associated with fever and chills.
Which causes this?
• Patient has a family history.
• Smoking is the main cause of this condition.
• Hormone therapy.
• Alcohol intake.
• Pregnancy.
• Hemorrhoids.
• Migratory thrombophlebitis.
• Local trauma.
• Taking contraceptive pills.
• Similar prior episodes.
• Varicose veins.
• An Injury to a vein.
• Obesity
• Prolonged traveling.
What are the signs and symptoms of this?
• Inflammation on affected body parts.
• Pain in affected body parts.
• Redness of skin.
• Part tender and warm to touch.
• Flexing causes pain.
• Swollen foot.
How to investigate thrombophlebitis?
• Complete case history
• Clinical examination
• Blood coagulation study
• Doppler ultrasound
• Venography
• X-ray
• Ultrasound
• CT or MRI scans
How to treat it?
• Analgesics
• Antibiotics
• Anticoagulants
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Thrombolytics to dissolve an existing clot
• Support stockings
• Bed rest and elevation of limbs
• Surgery
What is the prognosis?
The prognosis of thrombophlebitis is good if it is treated timely.
What are the complications of thrombophlebitis?
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Pulmonary embolism
• Chronic pain
• Swelling in legs
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Skin discoloration
• Blocked veins
What is the differential diagnosis of thrombophlebitis?
• Cellulitis
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Lymphangitis
• Neuritis
• Baker Cyst
• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Hematoma
• Varicosities
• Septic thrombophlebitis
How to manage this condition?
• Yoga
• Meditation for better living.
• Wear loose and comfortable clothes.
• Manage weight if overweight.
• Quit smoking.
• Avoid alcohol
• Use the hot application on affected parts.
• Drink plenty of liquids.
• Walk regularly for 30 minutes.
• Elevate legs.
• Eat a well-balanced diet.
• Take a vitamin K-rich diet.
How homeopathic medicines can help in this case?
Homeopathic medicines can help in this case symptomatically. Some homeopathic medicines can help in this case. These are:
• Arnica Montana
• Belladonna
• Hamamelis virginiana
• Lachesis
