Varicose Vein Ask a Provider

I have a varicose vein in my leg. It is hard and swollen since yesterday. What should I do?

This may be due to a clot that has formed in it. Redness and tendernessusually accompany this. It is known as superficial thrombophlebitis. This is not a dangerous clot from the standpoint of it dislodging and traveling to your lungs. It is usually uncomfortable and will take 2-3 weeks to resolve however. Use heat 20 minutes 2 times per day on it. And advil or some similare antiinflamatory.

You should also seek a consultation with your physician to be sure this is what is going on. Also look into treating the vein later so that this does not reoccur.

Eric Davis; PA-C, MPAS

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