Our veins do quite a bit of work during the course of our lives. They have a big responsibility to transport blood back to the heart in order to keep us alive. But sometimes these blood vessels become inflamed which can cause problems with circulation and uncomfortable symptoms. We’re talking about phlebitis.
Phlebitis is a term used to describe the inflammation of a vein. The term means vein (phleb) inflammation (itis). It is typically found in a limb, usually the leg, and it can be superficial (in veins just under the skin) or in deep tissue.
Superficial phlebitis is usually found in the veins just under the surface of the skin. It can require treatment but isn’t a life-threatening condition.
Phlebitis can be caused by:
Phlebitis can also be caused by a blood clot in the veins, called thrombophlebitis. If the blood clot is in the deep veins of the leg, the condition is called deep vein thrombosis or DVT. This condition can be life-threatening and lead to a pulmonary embolism.
Thrombophlebitis and deep vein thrombosis can be caused by sitting in one position for long periods of time such as during a flight. This allows the blood to pool in the veins, making the blood coagulate and form a blood clot.
Phlebitis can occur in the leg or arm and can be asymptomatic meaning you may not have any symptoms of the condition at all. But most people have some symptoms that usually occur near the affected vein. Symptoms can include:
You may also feel something that feels like a cord or rope under the skin or see a streak (or streaks) of red on the skin. All of these symptoms will usually occur near the affected vein.
Phlebitis treatment options can vary depending on the severity of the condition and if there is a DVT. But the treatment of superficial phlebitis can include:
More extensive phlebitis or deep vein thrombosis treatment can include:
Phlebitis is inflammation of a vein, usually in the legs but sometimes in the arms or other areas. It can cause pain, tenderness, redness, warmth, swelling, or a firm, cord-like vein under the skin. Phlebitis may affect a superficial vein near the skin or occur in connection with a blood clot, known as thrombophlebitis.
Phlebitis can have several causes, including varicose veins, injury or irritation to a vein, IV catheters or injections, surgery, prolonged inactivity, and conditions that increase the risk of blood clots. Sometimes phlebitis occurs alongside a blood clot, which is called thrombophlebitis.
Common symptoms of phlebitis include pain or tenderness, redness, warmth, swelling, and changes in the skin around the affected vein. A superficial vein may also feel hard or cord-like beneath the skin. Symptoms can vary depending on whether the inflammation involves a superficial vein or is associated with a deeper blood clot. Sudden swelling or significant pain should be medically evaluated because similar symptoms can occur with DVT.
We’re proud to be one of three vein centers in Illinois with an IAC accreditation. Get back on your feet with a team of vein specialists who help you understand your vein treatment options.
We’re proud to be one of three vein centers in Illinois with an IAC accreditation. Get back on your feet with a team of vein specialists who help you understand your vein treatment options.