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Signs and symptoms of superficial venous thrombophlebitis are:

• A hard cord-like feeling along a vein
• Soreness over this area, redness and warmth over the vein
• Swelling in the area
• Limb pain

People with deep venous thrombophlebitis (DVT) may have:

• No signs or symptoms
• Sudden swelling of the limb
• Pain or aching of the limb
• Fever
• Skin discoloration in severe cases

Superficial thrombophlebitis may occur after injury to the vein or the recent use of an intravenous (IV) line or catheter. Some people with a high risk for this condition may develop it in lieu of any of these risk factors:

• Chemical irritation of the area
• Disorders that involve increased blood clotting
• Infection
• Pregnancy
• Sitting or staying still for a prolonged period
• Use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
• Varicose veins
• Malignancy
• Chronic venous insufficiency

Diagnosis of superficial thrombophlebitis may be made based on appearance of the affected area. Other tests can be used to confirm the diagnosis, including:

• Ultrasound
• Venography
• Blood culture, if there is a sign of infection

Superficial thrombophlebitis is treated with elevation of the leg, anti-inflammatory medicines such as Motrin, mild pain relievers if needed and warm, moist soaks to the area either continuously or every 4-6 hours as needed. Elastic bandages or compression stockings are also used from the base of the toes to below the knee or higher. A short course of  low-molecular weight heparin (LMWH), Lovenox or Fondaparinux may also be prescribed. Antibiotics are used if there is sign of infection. Additionally, certain patients may benefit from surgical correction of superficial venous insufficiency.