What is superficial phlebitis?
Phlebitis refers to the inflammation of a vein. It can occur in superficial veins near the surface of the skin or in deeper veins, often accompanied by a blood clot. The condition is generally classified into two types: superficial phlebitis and deep vein thrombophlebitis (DVT). Superficial phlebitis is not as serious as a DVT as the clot rarely break off and travel to other parts of the body. It can arise anywhere in your body, but it is most common in your legs, or anywhere you may have had an injection.
What causes superficial phlebitis?
Phlebitis occurs when a blood clot blocks forms in a damaged vein that lie just beneath the surface of your skin. This causes pain, redness and swelling and frequently a lump. People who have problems with circulation and a history of DVT and Varicose veins can be more at risk. It can be caused by the following:
- Injury or Trauma: Damage to a vein, such as from an IV catheter or a blow to the area.
- Prolonged Inactivity: Extended periods of inactivity or immobility can lead to phlebitis.
- Varicose Veins: Enlarged veins with impaired blood flow are more susceptible to inflammation.
- Medical Conditions: Certain conditions, like cancer, autoimmune disorders, and clotting disorders, increase the risk.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, obesity, and long-term use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.
- Infections: Bacterial infections can cause phlebitis, particularly with IV drug use.
What are the symptoms of phlebitis?
Symptoms of phlebitis can include:
- Swelling around the clot
- Inflammation, redness and pain
- General or intense pain and around the phlebitis area
- Increased temperature, fever
- A lump/The affected vein may feel hard or cord-like.
If you suspect you have phlebitis, especially with severe symptoms, seek medical attention promptly to reduce the risk of complications.
How do I manage phlebitis?
If you experience a lump in your skin and symptoms of phlebitis, you should see your GP. Phlebitis can develop into deep vein thrombosis, which can be life-threatening.
Lifestyle Changes
- Gentle exercise and hear therapy (hot compress) to recued pain and swelling. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the legs and minimizes the risk of developing spider veins.
- Reduction or avoidance of prolonged Standing or Sitting: to improve blood flow.
- Elevation of legs to improve circulation.
Medication
- You may be given pain relief and an anticoagulants (blood thinners)to reduce the blood ability to clot. However, they do not actually thin the blood. They change chemicals in the blood to stop clots forming so easily. Anticoagulants do not dissolve the clot but can be used to prevent more clots from developing in the future.
Compression hosiery:
- Compression therapy helps improve circulation by applying gentle pressure to the legs. Compression hosiery will keep the blood flowing in your legs, and will also help reduce the swelling to make you feel more comfortable. When choosing compression stockings, it is important that you are fitted with the right type of compression hosiery with the right compression level. They helps prevent pooling of blood and move blood more efficiently in the body. All garments should be used as directed.
Each treatment has its benefits and potential risks, so it’s important to discuss these with your doctor to determine the best treatment for you. If you suspect you have phlebitis, especially with severe symptoms, seek medical attention promptly to reduce the risk of complications.
Daylong offers a wide range of compression stockings and support tights. See them here.
Where can I find more information?
More Information on the condition can be found at:
- NHS Choices – https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/phlebitis