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Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT)

Superficial vein thrombosis (SVT), also known as superficial thrombophlebitis, is a condition where a blood clot forms in a vein located close to the surface of the skin, typically in the legs or arms. While generally less serious than deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which affects deeper veins, it can still cause discomfort and requires medical attention.

 

What is it?

Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

How is SVT Caused?

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  • Inflammation or damage to the vein: This can be caused by factors like:

    • Injury to the vein, such as from an IV or blood draw

    • Varicose veins, which are weakened and enlarged veins

    • Inflammation from other conditions

  • Reduced blood flow: This can be due to prolonged sitting or lying down, such as during a long flight or after surgery.

  • Other risk factors: Similar to DVT, factors like obesity, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk of SVT.

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Symptoms

 

  • Redness and swelling: The skin over the affected vein becomes red and swollen.

  • Pain or tenderness: The area around the clot may feel tender or painful, especially to the touch.

  • Warmth: The affected area may feel warm to the touch.

  • Hardened vein: The affected vein may feel hard or cord-like.

 

Treatment

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  • Home care: In most cases, SVT can be managed at home with self-care measures like:

    • Elevation: Elevating the affected limb above the heart level helps reduce swelling and improve blood flow.

    • Compression stockings: Wearing compression stockings can help improve blood flow and reduce discomfort.

    • Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.

  • Some patients with SVT may develop DVT. If you have a history of DVT or have a condition that affects how the blood clots , your health care provider may recommend you take an anticoagulants, which is a blood thinner medication.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs, although it can also occur in the pelvis or abdomen. These clots can block blood flow and potentially break loose, travel through the bloodstream, and lodge in the lungs, leading to a life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism (PE).

 

What is it?

Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

How is DVT Caused?

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  • Blood flow stasis: This means slowed or stagnant blood flow, which can be caused by factors like:

    • Prolonged sitting or lying down, such as during long flights or after surgery.

    • Bed rest due to illness or injury.

    • Certain medical conditions that can thicken the blood, such as cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.

  • Damage to the vein wall: This can be caused by factors like:

    • Injury to the leg, such as a fracture or surgery.

    • Catheter insertion into a vein.

    • Inflammation of the vein wall.

  • Increased blood clotting tendency: Certain factors can make your blood more likely to clot, such as:

    • Certain medications, like birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy.

    • Pregnancy and the postpartum period.

    • Family history of blood clots.

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Symptoms

 

DVT can sometimes develop without any noticeable symptoms, making it crucial to be aware of the potential signs even in the absence of discomfort. However, common symptoms of DVT include:

  • Pain: Throbbing or cramping pain, usually in one leg, but can occur in both. The pain often worsens with standing or walking.

  • Swelling: The affected leg may be swollen compared to the other leg, especially around the ankle and calf.

  • Redness and warmth: The skin over the affected area may be red and feel warm to the touch.

  • Tenderness: The area around the clot may be tender or painful, especially to the touch.

It's important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, as early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications like PE.​

 

Treatment

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Treatment for DVT typically involves a combination of:

 

  • Blood thinners: These medications help prevent the clot from growing and reduce the risk of new clots forming.

  • Compression stockings: Wearing compression stockings helps improve blood flow in the legs and reduce swelling.

  • Pain relievers: Medications like over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain and discomfort.

  • Thrombolysis or thrombectomy: In some cases, procedures to remove the clot may be necessary, such as using medication to dissolve the clot (thrombolysis) or surgically removing it (thrombectomy).

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