If you have or think you have phlebitis, you know how uncomfortable it can be. Naturally, the first question people ask is how to treat it. In almost every case, phlebitis should be assessed by a vein ultrasound to determine if blood clots are present. The best treatment methods for phlebitis vary according to several factors. The treatment is to reduce inflammation and make you more comfortable while phlebitis resolves which is likely going to take several weeks, at least.
In the video below, I go into more detail on various treatment options for your phlebitis based on your specific diagnosis and the nature of your symptoms:
It is a very rare occurrence that you would not need a leg ultrasound after you have been diagnosed with phlebitis. This is almost always the next step in treatment because there is a known association with phlebitis and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), which can only be determined by an ultrasound.
What are treatment options for phlebitis?
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Over-the-counter medication:
Anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin, Aleve, or ibuprofen can help lessen the pain and inflammation of superficial phlebitis. You'll need to take it on a round-the-clock basis following medication guidelines. Tylenol or acetaminophen can be added to anti-inflammatory medicines. They'll help with pain but won't treat the inflammation which is the central source of the problem. -
Steroid medication:
Corticosteroids like Prednisone or a Medrol Dose Pack are very effective for the treatment of phlebitis due to their anti-inflammatory ability. If they are started after the inflammation really gets revved up, you'll get some but not complete improvement of inflammation...so, start early. -
Cold/warm therapy:
At the start of phlebitis, applying an ice bag or a warm compress to the affected area can greatly help with reducing inflammation and swelling. At some point in the healing process over the next couple of weeks, it will be more beneficial to use a heating pad to promote healing, but most likely not in the first week. You'll know that heat is not helping if it hurts after you use it. If that's the case, apply an ice pack. -
Compression stockings:
At some point, compression stockings are more comfortable as phlebitis heals. Usually, early on, it's more painful to wear compression because of the tenderness, but at some point, it's worth trying. Many patients find it does help reduce discomfort at some point in the recovery. You will have to figure that out by trying it periodically during your recovery. -
Blood thinners:
Blood thinners may be recommended to treat phlebitis if the ultrasound shows that it may lead to a DVT or if a DVT is present. For people who are placed on blood thinners, phlebitis tends to resolve more quickly and blood thinners are usually weaned off after a few months.
This is not often what patients like to hear, but phlebitis may take weeks to months for the pain and swelling to resolve. Some people end up with a permanent dark brown streak where the phlebitis was.
If you think you might have phlebitis, it is important to seek proper treatment.
While phlebitis is not often a serious or life-threatening condition, it certainly can be, and it should never be ignored. Reach out to your healthcare provider and discuss whether a vein ultrasound is appropriate for them.
