TreatmentTherapy

The exact components of the therapy of a phlebitis depend largely on the underlying cause. However, all forms have in common that the affected leg should be immobilized and cooling of the overlying skin is recommended. In addition, an anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing ointment, such as Diclofenac, is used in almost all cases.

The latter can also be taken as a tablet in more severe cases and combined with other painkillers. If the presence of varicose veins is the cause of the inflammation of the vein wall, the further aim of the therapy is to remove the affected veins in order to prevent possible recurrences of the disease. There are numerous methods available for this purpose, such as stripping, i.e. surgical removal, obliteration with lasers or chemical agents.

In case of thrombophlebitis, i.e. phlebitis with the formation of blood clots, compression stockings should always be worn. Especially if there is a suspicion of spreading into the deep leg vein system. In order to avoid possible complications such as pulmonary embolism, blood thinning with heparin is usually aimed for.

In some cases, surgical removal of the blood clots is also recommended. There are numerous home remedies that are said to have an effect on phlebitis and can be used in addition to the medically prescribed therapy. Most of these home remedies are applied in the form of wraps around the thigh.

The most common remedies used in this context are alcohol and apple vinegar compresses, curd or curd cheese compresses and clay compresses. Curd and loam wraps should have a temperature of approximately 18-21°C during application. All these forms have in common that they lead to a pleasant cooling of the skin, which has an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effect. In addition, depending on the tightness of the wrap, a compression of the thigh is desired.

Where does phlebitis in the thigh occur most frequently?

In almost all cases of superficial phlebitis of the thigh, the so-called vena saphena magna is affected. It originates at the inner ankle of the ankle and in most people runs along the inner side of the lower and upper thigh. This accumulation is mainly due to the fact that this vein is often affected by changes in the form of varicose veins. The smaller saphenous vein, which originates at the outer ankle and opens into the deep leg vein system in the hollow of the knee, can also be affected by inflammation.