Superficial venous thrombosis
A superficial venous thrombosis is a blood clot in a vein that is close to the surface of the skin. A superficial thrombosis usually forms a firm lump, sometimes like a rope, under the skin. Often the skin is red and tender. The skin may look infected, but an actual infection is not common.
If the area around the clot has inflammation, it is called superficial thrombophlebitis.
Blood clots in superficial veins usually are not serious. Home treatment is typically all that is needed unless the clots are very painful or uncomfortable.
How can you care for superficial thrombophlebitis?
- Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
- Prop up the sore leg or arm on a pillow anytime you sit or lie down. Try to keep it above the level of your heart.
To prevent thrombophlebitis
- Exercise. Keep blood moving in your legs to keep new clots from forming.
- Get up out of bed as soon as possible after an illness or surgery.
- Do not smoke. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
- Ask your doctor about compression stockings. These may help prevent blood clots from forming in your legs. But there are different types of stockings, and they need to fit right. So your doctor will recommend what you need.
Superficial thrombophlebitis: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You have sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, or you cough up blood.
- You vomit blood or what looks like coffee grounds.
- You pass maroon or very bloody stools.
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have signs of a blood clot, such as:
- Pain in your calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
- Redness and swelling in your leg or groin.
- You notice a new hard, red, or tender area in your leg.
- Your stools are black and tarlike or have streaks of blood.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You do not get better as expected.
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