How long does phlebitis in the calf last? | Phlebitis in the calf

How long does phlebitis in the calf last?

The duration of a phlebitis depends mainly on the severity of the inflammation. Mild inflammations of the venous wall usually heal within a few days if the patient is sufficiently treated and immobilized, while more severe forms usually take a few weeks to heal. More severe forms can usually be expected if there is a pre-existing injury to the vein, such as after operations or thromboses.

When the affected leg can be fully loaded again and sports activities can be performed should always be clarified by a medical consultation. When and how intensively sport should be practiced after a phlebitis depends largely on the underlying cause. If the inflammation is due to a varicose vein, then doing sports is not only tolerated but also desired.

Since varicose veins are associated with a reduced blood flow, which ultimately leads to inflammation, increased blood flow to the veins during sports activities is definitely desirable. Endurance sports such as jogging or Nordic walking are recommended. In the case of thrombophlebitis, i.e. phlebitis with associated thrombosis, the recommendation for sports activity is handled with greater caution.

Depending on the location of the thrombus, there is a risk that it will become detached and lead to vascular occlusion elsewhere. Therefore, a sufficiently long treatment of the thrombosis should be carried out and the thrombosis should be ruled out by a doctor before intensive sports activities are carried out. Light physical exercise, such as walking or light Nordic Walking, can, however, be carried out after consultation with the doctor.

What is the course of a phlebitis?

In the vast majority of cases, phlebitis of the calf shows a complication-free course and subsides after only a few days. They usually develop within several days to weeks until they have reached their full extent and a therapy becomes necessary. Although much less common, phlebitis can also develop within hours to a few days.

This is particularly the case if the vein is injured by injections, infusions or thromboses. The further course of the disease then depends on a fast and effective therapy and usually lasts from days to a few weeks, provided that the underlying cause is treated.