What Is the Treatment for Thrombophlebitis?
Treatment varies according to severity. When a superficial blood vessel is involved, the condition may begin to get better in a week or two. Treatment focuses on reducing swelling and pain. All you may need is to take aspirin or ibuprofen (like Motrin or Advil) and apply heat to the leg for 15 to 30 minutes, two to three times daily. Some people may need to wear support hose or stockings or have their leg wrapped to apply pressure to the leg and reduce swelling. Elevating the leg can also prevent excess fluid from pooling in the affected area. More severe cases may require a trip to the hospital to receive IV drugs like heparin to help the clot to dissolve. This will usually be followed by treatment with an oral medication like warfarin for several months or longer, to prevent clots from returning. This will require frequent blood tests to monitor the effectiveness of the medication. Serious thrombophlebitis may also need treatment with antibiotics to kill infections that could develop
