I have been suffering from 5 superficial blood-clots in my right forearm for about 8 months now. I first went to ER for a migraine shot and that is how I received them. I went back two weeks later cause of pain and discomfort and they told me that it is do to blood-clots caused by the IV. They told me to go home take aspirin and use warm compresses. Well I have been doing that for almost a year now and they have only gotten worse. I do not smoke and have a very healthy lifestyle. My arm is turning black and blue where they are and the clots swelling up and almost poking through the skin. I cant follow up cause I do not have Health insurance and cant afford it. Can anyone direct me to a clinic or health insurance carrier around Albany NY that will help me with my small budget. This is my body and I'm really getting worried. I'm only 24 and I need medical attention for these clots. Any medical advice is also appreciated thanks again and please leave your sources for me to verify unless experience or a medical professional yourself. Thanks again!
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Verified answer
Inflammation in superficial or surface veins (such as those used to insert intravenous (IV) lines in the arm or to draw blood) produces pain and discomfort but it isn't considered serious. Blood clots that form in superficial veins rarely break loose and travel in the blood to cause blockage thoromboembolism) and complications in organs such as the lungs. If you are not better in a week or two, get re-evaluated to make sure you don't have a more serious condition. you will need to take a blood thinner (anticoagulant). The duration of anticoagulant treatment is usually between 3-6 months.If the phlebitis has progressed to involve the deep veins, then it is a serious condition that often requires hospital admission for treatment and further evaluation. If you have a swollen limb contact your doctor immediatly. Phlebitis in the superficial veins is rarely serious and usually responds to pain control, elevation, and warm compresses for 1-2 weeks. sorry i havent any information about clinic or health insurance carrier around Albany
Swelling is most often seen with superficial venous blood clots. Swelling may not be seen with deep venous thrombosis because the vein is so deep. DVT 'above the knee' is a serious concern as an unknown percentage of these propagate to the lungs where the results may be devastating. The significance of recurrent superficial clots is less certain. I assume that you have undergone a very thorough work up for clotting disorders. I will also assume that you have had a venous duplex to rule out a DVT. If you have had recurrent superficial blood clots I assume that the use of long-term warfarin sodium has been discussed with you. Warfarin does not dissolve clots but may prevent them. I am not saying that you should be on warfarin but I do believe that it should have been discussed with you. I assume that you are a non-smoker or if you are a smoker I assume that you have been advised to quit. I assume that you are not taking any medications which may contribute to blood clot formation. It is an inherent limitation of this forum that I do not have access to your medical record and I must therefore make many assumptions and offer at best only general advice. If I may be of further assistance please let me know. I wish you the very best of health and in all things may God bless.