What to Do for SUPERFICIAL PHLEBITIS
REST FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS until the symptoms subside. KEEP THE LEGS ELEVATED and apply warm compresses.
DON'T RUB THE AFFECTED AREA. It can dislodge a clot in a deeper vein. WHILE YOU ARE IN BED, move your feet, ankles and legs from time to time to stimulate the circulation.
ELASTIC STOCKINGS can relieve your discomfort and help the flow of blood by increasing muscle tone. FOR PAIN RELIEF take aspirin or ibuprofen as needed.
That's it. You don't need antibiotics, because there is rarely any infectious component to phlebitis.
ONCE THE ATTACK IS OVER
RESUME YOUR NORMAL ACTIVITIES gradually, but... GET PLENTY OF REST.
POSTPONE TRAVEL PLANS for a few weeks if they involve long flights or car trips. IF YOU'RE ON THE PILL, consider some other form of birth control.
STOP SMOKING. TRY NOT TO CROSS YOUR LEGS when sitting.