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What Does My Ultrasound Scan Report Indicate?
Question: I have had an ultra sound checking for a blood clot and there was none. The area is sensitive to touch and that's the only time it hurts. I can see an outline of a circle if the light is right. It's about the size of putting the index finger and thumb together. It feels like a bruise but doesn't act like one.
Brief Answer:
Most likely phlebitis (superficial vein inflammation)
Detailed Answer:
Hello Ms. Letcher,
If the ultrasound did not show a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) but the area is tender and as you described, it may phlebitis. I am assuming we are talking about your leg, although phlebitis can happen in an arm too - usually after having an IV.
Phlebitis is inflammation of a superficial vein. It is not serious, and usually resolves on it's own. Put warm compresses on it when you can. Ibuprofen or other NSAIDs can be used for the inflammation, but as you have no pain except when touching it, this is not absolutely necessary. If you do take ibuprofen, take it after you have food in your stomach to avoid stomach irritation.
Phlebitis in the legs usually results from local trauma to a vein and can happen more often with varicose veins. Prolonged inactivity, and smoking, can also predispose a person to phlebitis because it increases the chance of inflammation and clotting in the superficial or deep veins. If it happens in a deep vein (called a DVT) it can be a serious problem but if it is in a superficial vein it is not risky.
If you have varicose veins, consider using compression stockings.
I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information.
Most likely phlebitis (superficial vein inflammation)
Detailed Answer:
Hello Ms. Letcher,
If the ultrasound did not show a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) but the area is tender and as you described, it may phlebitis. I am assuming we are talking about your leg, although phlebitis can happen in an arm too - usually after having an IV.
Phlebitis is inflammation of a superficial vein. It is not serious, and usually resolves on it's own. Put warm compresses on it when you can. Ibuprofen or other NSAIDs can be used for the inflammation, but as you have no pain except when touching it, this is not absolutely necessary. If you do take ibuprofen, take it after you have food in your stomach to avoid stomach irritation.
Phlebitis in the legs usually results from local trauma to a vein and can happen more often with varicose veins. Prolonged inactivity, and smoking, can also predispose a person to phlebitis because it increases the chance of inflammation and clotting in the superficial or deep veins. If it happens in a deep vein (called a DVT) it can be a serious problem but if it is in a superficial vein it is not risky.
If you have varicose veins, consider using compression stockings.
I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you doctor. That does answer my question. I have had phlebitis in the same leg ...last year.
Brief Answer:
Your welcome!
Detailed Answer:
I'm glad to help. If you do any long traveling, be sure to move your legs as much as possible and take breaks if possible.
Best regards,
Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, MD
Your welcome!
Detailed Answer:
I'm glad to help. If you do any long traveling, be sure to move your legs as much as possible and take breaks if possible.
Best regards,
Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, MD
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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