Suggest Treatment For Blood Clot In Leg

Posted on Fri, 22 Jan 2016

Question: I have a blood clot in my lower leg (calf area). I have seen a doctor but am still concerned. I'm not in blood thinners and he isn't putting me on any. He seemed to suggest that a superficial clot was not anything to be worried about and told me to ice and heat, walk, wear my stocking, and have a follow up appointment next week, which I already set up. He specializes in this field from what I understand. However, From what I read, clots are not good. Shouldn't I be put on blood thinners, or shouldn't something else be done? His suggestions and treatment seem too simple for something I assumed is a huge deal. Can't blood clots break off and cause strokes?

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Following advice...

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you for asking!
I read your query and understood your concerns.

First of all a patient with a superficial vein clot (superficial thrombophlebitis) doesn't need to be put on anticoagulants (blood thinners) unless the clot is extended on the deep veins.

This is why it's essential to know the degree of extension of the clot. The best way to evaluate it is by Doppler ultrasound examination. Can you upload the Doppler examination report for me?

Secondly a superficial vein thrombosis isn't a serious life threatening situation and complications are very rare. The risk of stroke or pulmonary embolism is very low and this is why superficial thrombosis doesn't require anti-coagulation therapy. However, you may be put on the following medications:
- Anticoagulant like baby aspirin
- NSAID drugs (Advil) to relieve leg pain and swelling

Hope this will be of help!
Wish you health!
Dr. Shehu

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar