Phlebitis

What is Phlebitis?

Thrombophlebitis (phlebitis) occurs when a vein becomes inflamed or a blood clot causes swelling in one or more of your veins. This condition most commonly occurs in the legs. It can, however, also occur in any vein in your body. If a superficial vein is affected, this is called Superficial Thrombophlebitis. If a deep vein is involved, this is called a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Superficial clots infrequently travel to the lungs (causing a Pulmonary Embolism). They more typically cause localized pain and swelling. Untreated, superficial clots can move into the deep veins. A clot in a deep vein can cause significant damage, the most significant being a pulmonary embolism, a potentially fatal complication.

Thrombophlebitis can be caused by prolonged inactivity. This condition may result from sitting for long periods of time in an airplane or automobile. It may also occur after a lengthy bed rest after surgery. Symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis generally include pain, swelling and redness along the affected vein. It may be accompanied with fever. There is often a visible or palpable “cord” along the length of the affected vein.

DVT is a true medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) may include:

  • Leg swelling or arm swelling
  • Calf pain
  • Severe chest pain or shortness of breath may signify a blood clot that has broken free and travelled to your lungs (pulmonary embolism)
  • There may not be any symptoms

Our Boulder vein clinic has vein therapy that can help with this condition.

How Do Blood Clots Form?

There are many reasons for forming blood clots. The risk of abnormal clotting increases with the number of predisposing risk factors:

  • Prolonged inactivity (i.e., airplane or car travel, bedrest after surgery or hospitalization)
  • Various cancers
  • Varicose veins
  • Blood clotting disorders
  • Pregnancy
  • Birth control pills (OCP)
  • Obesity
  • Smoking

Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Long term complications of superficial thrombophlebitis may include:

  • Chronic leg discoloration
  • Varicose veins
  • Chronic skin thickening
  • Leg ulceration
  • Major venous bleeding

Can Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) be Prevented?

In certain cases, a superficial clot can migrate into a deep vein and cause a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Complications of a DVT can include chronic vein blockage with subsequent leg swelling, varicose veins, or a pulmonary embolism. It is possible to suffer from a heart attack or stroke if an abnormal opening is present in the heart. Blood clots can often be prevented by:

  • Staying active
  • Compression socks
  • Prophylactic blood thinner medications after surgery

Learn more about treatment options in your visit to Boulder Vein Center. Please give us a call at 303-449-8346 to schedule an appointment today.