Can superficial phlebitis cause health problems?

Typically no: Usually not - this is a local reaction and usually resolves.

If there is a clot: Phlebitis is an inflamed vein. The problem is that the inflammation is often caused by a thrombus (clot) and the only way to know that a clot is present or not is to have an ultrasound. Clots are common in phlebitis and 24% of the time that a person has phlebitis associated with a clot, they also have a deep venous thrombosis. About 10% of these are associated with a pulmonary embolism.

Superficial thrombos: it depends upon the location of the superficial thrombophlebitis and its relationship to the deeper veins. If the superficial thrombophlebitis moves towards the deeper vein, then blood thinners-anticoagulation, would be recommended. Other than that Anti-inflammatories would be helpful as well as a compression stocking. Evaluation to determine if there is varicose veins and reflux is important.