Hi,
Sounds like you are doing what you need to do (compression and leg elevation). I assume you remain on blood thinners.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

There are two possibilities. First, better compression may help in the form of either stronger stockings or a Circ-Aid garment which uses multiple adjustable Velcro straps. Second, you may be candidate for a sequential
compression pump. Check with your doctor.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Chronic DVT is extremely difficult to manage. First, make sure you are on differerent anticoagulation since obbiously whatever you are on isn't working as well since it keeps giving you recurrences. I had good results with xarelto. Second, you need a good duplex ultraound to evaluate ALL your veins, both
deep and superficial to evaluate what is predominant contributor of the
swelling.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Your return of venous blood from the legs has been compromised by the recurrent clots. Leg swelling can be a chronic problem. The mainstays of treating chronic leg swelling include elevation and support hose but lymphedema massage and segmental compression pumps will also help. See a vein specialist for recommendations.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I would see a vascular surgeon or the doctor who placed you IVC filter to see if they can treat that acute blood clot with clot busting medicine. Especially if the edema has worsened since this new clot and if it is on the thigh or higher. Either way you should be on anti-coagulation unless there is a real good reason why you can't be. Compression therapy would be the best treatment otherwise.

Published on Jul 11, 2012