Superficial thrombophlebitis can develop, among other things, due to the presence of a catheter in a vein, but also because the patient has varicose veins in the lower limbs. In most cases, the problem even disappears completely on its own after a few days or weeks, but it should not be underestimated: it increases the risk of venous thromboembolism (such as deep vein thrombosis).
Superficial thrombophlebitis: treatment
In most cases, thrombophlebitis of the superficial veins, completely on its own, resolves after a few days, at most a few weeks. Then, when the patient complains of severe pain, medication can be given to relieve the pain. In this case, agents from the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as diclofenac, ketoprofen or ibuprofen) in oral or topical form are used in particular. In addition to these, the use of heparin ointments can also alleviate patients' complaints.
The basic management of superficial thrombophlebitis has been described above. If indicated (e.g. due to immobilisation), anticoagulant prophylaxis (based on the administration of heparin or oral vitamin K antagonists such as warfarin or acenocoumarol) may also be initiated in the patient. Anticoagulant treatment may also be recommended, among other things, if the inflammation has developed in the veins lying above the knee.
In cases where superficial thrombophlebitis has developed due to the presence of a catheter in the vein, the administration of medication through the catheter should be discontinued and removed. If, on the other hand, the patient develops purulent superficial thrombophlebitis, it is necessary to administer antibiotics to the patient - the choice of the specific drug available depends on the results of microbiological tests.
