I was just diagnosed with an SVT in L medial lower leg halfway down. My symptoms began about 1" below medial knee joint. I just started wearing my compression stockings (20-30 mmHg). There was some relief for 9 hours, but I have much pain just below the medial knee again. Suggestions?
The stockings that you are wearing only minimize vein symptoms like a SVT. They do not get rid of the SVT. This is why the pain and swelling will continue for a few weeks. The only thing that will help get rid of the pain and prevent a recurrence, is to have your vein disease treated by a vein treatment specialist.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The pain is likely related to the superfical venous thrombosis, which is typically associated with a painful phlebitis. It will likely take weeks for the discomfort to improve and resolve. Anti-inflammatories and compression therapy as well as warm heat will tend to help. I doubt the stockings are contributing to the continued discomfort.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Warm soaks and Ibuprofen (or some other anti-inflammatory) are the mainstays of treatment for superficial thrombophlebitis (SVT). Low dose aspirin (81 mg) once daily is also helpful. The pain and inflammation may take 3-5 days to show significant improvement, so please be patient. If you notice the inflammation progressing up the leg above the knee you should have another ultrasound performed to see the extent of it. More aggressive blood thinners might be needed, in that case, to prevent further propagation toward
the deep vein system.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Sometimes the hose can hurt although usually the leg feels better with them on. The fit may not be correct.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
You did not mention if you are wearing knee or thigh length hose. Knee length can cause such pain. However, you should be reevaluated for clot extension above this area including another ultrasound examination. Are you on any anti-coagulation (Aspirin, ibuprofen, Coumadin)? Applying low heat often can help with the discomfort. I would recommend calling your physician soon.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The pain should slowly get better over 10 days if you are taking ibuprofen.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Heat and anti-inflammatory agents may also help relieve your pain. You should have a venous ultrasound to rule out an underlying DVT. You should follow up with a vascular surgeon.
Published on Jul 11, 2012