SUPERFICIAL Thrombophlebitis and Deep Vein Thrombosis
Your mobility, or lack thereof, plays a key role in the development of complications due to varicose veins and venous insufficiency. Two of these conditions, Superficial Thrombophlebitis and Deep Vein Thrombosis, are nearly identical symptoms-wise but have significant differences that could potentially lead to more serious conditions if not properly treated.
Superficial Thrombophlebitis and Superficial Phlebitis are the inflammation of a vein just below the skin with or without the presence of a blood clot, respectively. This condition is rarely serious and can be resolved quickly with proper care.
Deep Vein Thrombosis is caused by the presence of a blood clot in veins deep below the skin. This condition is much more serious as the clot could move to the lungs, causing pulmonary embolism.
Similarities
Both conditions are associated with warmth, redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area, usually the legs.
Both are brought on because of decreased blood flow through veins, which can come from extended periods without leg movement such as:
- Car or plane rides
- Jobs involving desk work or standing in place
- Injuries requiring casts
- Bed rest
The pain level of Deep Vein Thrombosis is typically much greater than that of Superficial Thrombophlebitis, but the pain you feel isn’t an accurate indicator of which condition you’re suffering because everyone has a different tolerance to pain.
The only way to accurately determine which condition you’re suffering from is through a detailed evaluation and duplex examination. In either case, treatment should be pursued as an untreated blood clot from Superficial Thrombophlebitis can progress into the deep vein system.
Contact International Vein & Skin Institute today, to schedule appointment with Dr. Jozef Tryzno.
Call: (847) 518-9999
If you are experiencing these symptoms along with shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing, call 911 or go immediately to emergency room as pulmonary embolism may be occurring.