Phlebitis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Phlebitis, also referred to as superficial phlebitis or thrombophlebitis, is a condition marked by the inflammation of the superficial veins in the legs. This leads to formation of clot at the side of the vein. The thrombus or the clot in the vein may cause pain, irritation and in some cases it may also lead to the blood flow being blocked in the veins.

Phlebitis that affect the veins on the superficial layer of the skin is termed as superficial phlebitis while blood clots in the deeper veins are referred to as deep vein thrombosis. While superficial phlebitis is not a serious condition, it may herald the deep vein thrombophlebitis which affects the larger blood vessels in the legs. The thrombi or blood clots can break apart and travel to the lungs. This can lead to a life-threatening condition known as pulmonary embolism.

Causes of Phlebitis

The most common cause of the disorder is trauma to the vessel wall caused by an injury to the vein. Phlebitis might also be the result of prolonged inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle. People who sit and recline for long periods of time, for instance, a long trip in a plane or bed rest for a prolonged illness are at an increased risk of contracting the disease. Other causes of phlebitis include obesity, smoking, pregnancy, certain birth control pills, intravenous drug use and certain medical conditions like cancer.

Associated Symptoms

In superficial phlebitis the area around the vein is characterized by a red area along the superficial veins on the skin of the arms and legs. The area may be initially warm and tender, leading to a throbbing pain in the veins and accompanied by a low grade fever. The symptoms may worsen when the limb is lowered, especially when getting out of the bed in the morning.

A person with deep venous thrombosis may display similar symptoms along with redness and swelling of the limbs.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Phlebitis

Phlebitis is diagnosed by the examination of the vein and an ultrasound scan, in case it has reached the deep vein. The treatment for superficial phlebitis consists of rest and warm soaks. The physician may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). External compression by means of an elastic fitted stockings is recommended for patients suffering from phlebitis with lower extremities. In case of an infection of the phlebitis, the doctor may recommend antibiotics.

In case of deep vein thrombophlebitis, anticoagulants are prescribed to reduce the blood clots and allow the existing clots to disappear. The patient should also be observed for myocardial infarction and pulmonary embolism. Once the blood clot disappears, alternate periods of rest and walking are recommended. The duration of the treatment may last from three to six months.

In case of phlebitis in the groin, a doctor may perform a quick surgery, as this is the point where the superficial vein joins a deep vein; thus the phlebitis may extend to the deep vein.

Phlebitis can be controlled by smoking cessation and a moderate level of physical activity. In case of most hospitalization, early mobilization or a low dose of blood thinners may help prevent the disorder.