Complications

What are the complications of post-phlebetic syndrome?

• Varicose veins

  Which is the distension of the superficial veins of the leg. The results of varicose veins surgery in this setting are very poor. Once the patient has DVT, varicose veins surgery should be avoided.

• Swelling may be permanent.

• Discolouration of the skin

  This almost inevitably will occur over a few years and the skin will become hard – lipodermatosclerosis. This condition is a precursor to the development of an ulcer.

What are the measures I can take to prevent this condition. (Self-care steps)?

As I said this condition cannot be prevented but can be relieved or delayed by:

• Keeping the legs elevated at night by using two pillows under your ankles or raising the foot end of the bed. During the day also try to eliminate the pull of gravity by putting your legs up when sitting.

• Compression stockings

  These should be made to order preferably and worn to mid-thigh but in DVT behind the knee may be worn to the knee. They should not be worn at night when your legs are elevated but right throughout the day from the time you get out of bed in the morning to the time you get into bed at night. It should be only removed only while taking a bath.

• If pain is severe Iboprofen may be taken but should be avoided in kidney disease.

Content Reviewed by – Dr. Jaisom Chopra