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Vein inflammation with a blood clot

In superficial thrombophlebitis, a vein just beneath the skin is inflamed and contains a blood clot. It often affects the leg and needs assessment for spread into deeper veins.

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In superficial thrombophlebitis, a vein just beneath the skin is inflamed and usually contains a blood clot. The vein often feels like a painful, hard cord. It differs from a deep vein thrombosis in the leg, but both may occur together or one may develop into the other.

  • A red, warm, tender cord in a leg or arm is typical of inflammation in a superficial vein.
  • Have new vein inflammation assessed, especially if it is above the knee, spreading quickly or there are risk factors for thrombosis.
  • An ultrasound may be needed to determine the clot's length and location and rule out deep vein thrombosis.
  • Usually, keep moving gently. Prolonged bed rest increases the risk of thrombosis.
  • Warmth, elevation, compression and a painkiller may ease symptoms if they are safe for you.
  • A longer clot, a clot close to a deep vein or increased risk may require temporary anticoagulant treatment.
  • Antibiotics do not help ordinary non-bacterial vein inflammation and are needed only when there are signs of infection.
  • Sudden difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing up blood or fainting may be a pulmonary embolism: call Ambulance 912.

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