Phlebitis is the term for the swelling of a vein, most often in one’s leg. Thrombophlebitis is the term for inflammation of a vein caused by a blood clot, but the term is often shortened to phlebitis.
The condition is easily treatable, though it sometimes leads to more serious health concerns. When the clot is embedded into a deep vein, thrombophlebitis can become much more serious. The condition, appropriately named
deep vein thrombosis
, can cause blood clots in the lungs (
pulmonary embolism
),
heart attack
, and
stroke
.
There are two kinds of phlebitis: superficial phlebitis (affecting veins near the skin's surface) and deep venous thrombosis (DVT).
Phlebitis is often caused by:
- Prolonged bed rest following an operation
- Paralysis
- Use of estrogen
- Lack of exercising your legs over an extended period of time (eg, long airplane trips)
- Prior episodes of phlebitis
- Trauma
to the lower extremity
-
Cancer malignancy—Certain cancers may put you at risk for a hypercoagulable condition. This is when the blood clots more than normal. This condition can lead to venous thrombosis. Cancers that can lead to a hypercoagulable condition include
pancreatic,
stomach,
prostate, and
colon
cancer, as well as
acute leukemia.
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
The following factors increase your chance of developing phlebitis:
- Sitting for long periods of time, such as on an airplane or being confined to bed rest
-
Health conditions that increase the risk of blood clots. These include cancers particularly of the
pancreas
which is associated with recurrent phlebitis.
- Blood disorders which increase the clotting potential of blood. These include Protein C deficiency due to Factor V Leiden (hereditary blood coagulation disorder).
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
Symptoms include:
- Very visible, cord-like vein that is tender and sensitive to pressure. This cord may develop over several hours to days.
- Redness and warmth surrounding the vein
- Swelling around the vein
- A low-grade fever may be seen, however a high fever and drainage that is purulent (pus) indicate infection.
- Call your physician immediately should you develop a fever, shortness of breath (which may indicate that the clot may have traveled to the lung), and severe pain and swelling in the arm or leg.
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Tests may include the following:
- Physical exam
-
X-ray or
ultrasound
to check for deeper blood clots
- Venogram in which dye or contrast is injected
- In case of recurrent episodes of phlebitis, screening for blood disorders is done.
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
You may be advised to take over-the-counter pain relievers, like aspirin or ibuprofen.
Walking is typically recommended.
Another option is applying a warm compress over the inflamed vein.
Also beneficial may be elevating the arm or leg with the inflamed vein to a level above the heart.
Because the most common cause of phlebitis is injury, there are no specific steps to take to prevent the condition.
Last reviewed April 2007 by Mujgan Jamil, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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