Phlebitis refers to inflammation of a vein, usually in the legs. It can occur in superficial veins (close to the skin surface) or, more seriously, in deep veins (which is called deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, when a clot is involved).
📌 Types of Phlebitis
- Superficial Phlebitis (Superficial Thrombophlebitis)
- Affects veins just under the skin
- Often caused by varicose veins, IV catheters, or minor injuries
- Deep Vein Thrombophlebitis (DVT)
- Affects deep veins, usually in the legs
- More dangerous due to risk of pulmonary embolism
🔍 Causes
- Varicose veins
- IV or catheter use
- Injury or trauma to a vein
- Infection
- Prolonged immobility
- Clotting disorders
- Certain medications (e.g., hormone therapy, chemotherapy)
⚠️ Symptoms
Superficial Phlebitis:
- Red, hard, tender area along a vein
- Warmth and swelling
- Mild fever (sometimes)
- Palpable cord-like vein under the skin
Deep Phlebitis (DVT):
- Swelling in one leg
- Deep pain or aching
- Warmth and redness
- Risk of pulmonary embolism
🧪 Diagnosis
- Physical exam
- Ultrasound (especially to rule out DVT)
- D-dimer test (if clot is suspected)
💊 Treatment
For Superficial Phlebitis:
- Warm compresses
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) to reduce inflammation
- Compression stockings
- Elevation of the leg
- Walking regularly
- Antibiotics (only if infection is present)
For Phlebitis with a Clot (Thrombophlebitis or DVT):
- Anticoagulants (blood thinners) like apixaban or warfarin
- Close monitoring to prevent complications
🛡️ Prevention
- Stay active and avoid long periods of immobility
- Proper care and rotation of IV catheters
- Compression stockings if prone to varicose veins or after surgery
- Hydration and leg movement during long travel
📌 When to See a Doctor
- If symptoms spread, worsen, or involve swelling and pain in deeper tissue
- If there is fever, chills, or signs of infection
- If you have risk factors for DVT or history of blood clots