What are the signs and symptoms of phlebitis. How is phlebitis diagnosed and treated. What are the risk factors for developing phlebitis. When should you seek medical attention for phlebitis symptoms. What are the potential complications of untreated phlebitis.

Understanding Phlebitis: An Overview of Vein Inflammation

Phlebitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the veins. It often occurs in conjunction with thrombosis, forming a condition known as thrombophlebitis. This vascular disorder can affect both superficial and deep veins, leading to various symptoms and potential complications if left untreated.

Superficial thrombophlebitis typically affects veins near the skin’s surface, while deep vein thrombophlebitis involves larger blood vessels deeper within the body. The latter is generally considered more serious and requires prompt medical attention.

Types of Phlebitis

• Superficial phlebitis: Affects veins close to the skin surface
• Deep vein phlebitis: Involves larger veins deeper in the body
• Septic phlebitis: Caused by bacterial infection in the vein
• Chemical phlebitis: Results from irritation due to IV medications or solutions

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Phlebitis

Identifying phlebitis early is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of complications. The symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but there are several common signs to watch for.

Common Symptoms of Superficial Phlebitis

• Redness and warmth along the affected vein
• Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding area
• A visible, cord-like structure under the skin
• Itching or mild pain around the inflamed vein
• Skin discoloration over the affected area

Can phlebitis symptoms worsen at certain times? Symptoms of superficial phlebitis may intensify when the affected leg is lowered, such as when getting out of bed in the morning. This is due to increased blood flow and pressure in the affected veins.

Symptoms of Deep Vein Phlebitis

• Severe pain or tenderness in the affected limb
• Significant swelling of the entire limb
• Skin that feels warm to the touch
• Changes in skin color, often appearing red or bluish
• Low-grade fever in some cases

Is deep vein phlebitis more serious than superficial phlebitis? Yes, deep vein phlebitis is generally considered more serious because it can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which carries a risk of potentially life-threatening complications such as pulmonary embolism.

Causes and Risk Factors for Developing Phlebitis

Understanding the underlying causes and risk factors for phlebitis is essential for prevention and early intervention. While anyone can develop this condition, certain factors increase the likelihood of its occurrence.

Common Causes of Phlebitis

• Injury or trauma to a vein
• Prolonged immobility or bed rest
• Recent surgery or medical procedures
• Intravenous (IV) catheter use
• Certain medications administered intravenously
• Underlying medical conditions affecting blood clotting

How does trauma to a vein lead to phlebitis? When a vein is injured, it can trigger the body’s clotting response. This process can lead to inflammation and the formation of blood clots, resulting in phlebitis.

Risk Factors for Phlebitis

• Age (risk increases with age, especially over 60)
• Obesity or being overweight
• Smoking
• Pregnancy and postpartum period
• Use of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy
• Personal or family history of blood clotting disorders
• Varicose veins
• Certain types of cancer

Why does the risk of phlebitis increase with age? As we age, our blood vessels become less elastic and more prone to damage. Additionally, older adults are more likely to have underlying health conditions and reduced mobility, which can contribute to the development of phlebitis.

Diagnosis and Assessment of Phlebitis

Accurate diagnosis of phlebitis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan. Healthcare providers use a combination of physical examination, patient history, and diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of phlebitis and assess its severity.

Physical Examination

During a physical exam, the healthcare provider will look for visible signs of phlebitis, such as:

• Redness and swelling along the affected vein
• Tenderness or pain when the area is touched
• Warmth in the surrounding skin
• Hardening or thickening of the vein

Diagnostic Tests

To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, several diagnostic tests may be performed:

• Duplex ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging test uses sound waves to visualize blood flow and detect clots in the veins.
• Venography: A contrast dye is injected into the vein, and X-rays are taken to identify any blockages or abnormalities.
• D-dimer blood test: This test measures a substance in the blood that indicates the presence of blood clots.
• CT scan or MRI: These imaging tests may be used in some cases to get a more detailed view of the affected veins and surrounding tissues.

How accurate is ultrasound in diagnosing phlebitis? Duplex ultrasound is highly accurate in diagnosing both superficial and deep vein thrombosis, with a sensitivity and specificity of over 95% in most cases. It is often the preferred initial diagnostic tool due to its non-invasive nature and ability to provide real-time imaging of blood flow.

Treatment Options for Phlebitis: From Conservative Measures to Medical Interventions

The treatment approach for phlebitis depends on various factors, including the type of phlebitis, its severity, and the patient’s overall health. In many cases, especially for superficial phlebitis, conservative measures can be effective. However, more severe cases or deep vein involvement may require medical interventions.

Conservative Treatment Measures

• Elevation of the affected limb to reduce swelling and improve circulation
• Application of warm compresses to alleviate pain and promote blood flow
• Wearing compression stockings to support vein function and reduce swelling
• Gentle exercise and movement to prevent blood stasis
• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen to manage pain and inflammation

How long should you elevate your leg when treating phlebitis? It’s generally recommended to elevate the affected leg above heart level for 15-20 minutes several times a day. This helps reduce swelling and promotes better blood flow back to the heart.

Medical Interventions

For more severe cases or when conservative measures are insufficient, medical treatments may include:

• Prescription anticoagulant medications (blood thinners) to prevent clot formation and growth
• Antibiotics if there’s evidence of infection (septic phlebitis)
• Topical or oral anti-inflammatory medications
• In rare cases, surgical intervention to remove severely affected veins

When are blood thinners necessary for treating phlebitis? Blood thinners are typically prescribed for deep vein thrombosis or when there’s a high risk of clot progression. They may also be used in cases of superficial thrombophlebitis that are extensive or close to deep veins.

Preventing Phlebitis: Strategies for Reducing Risk

While not all cases of phlebitis can be prevented, there are several strategies individuals can employ to reduce their risk of developing this condition. Prevention is particularly important for those with known risk factors or a history of venous disorders.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Maintain a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise
• Stay hydrated to promote good blood circulation
• Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing
• Take regular breaks to move and stretch during long trips or work hours
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
• Wear loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t restrict blood flow

How does regular exercise help prevent phlebitis? Regular physical activity promotes better blood circulation, strengthens the muscles that support veins, and helps maintain a healthy weight. These factors collectively reduce the risk of blood clot formation and vein inflammation.

Medical Precautions

For individuals at higher risk, additional preventive measures may include:

• Wearing compression stockings as recommended by a healthcare provider
• Following post-surgery mobilization instructions carefully
• Discussing the use of prophylactic anticoagulants with a doctor before long flights or periods of immobility
• Proper management of underlying conditions that increase phlebitis risk, such as varicose veins or blood clotting disorders

Can compression stockings really help prevent phlebitis? Yes, compression stockings can be effective in preventing phlebitis, especially in high-risk individuals. They work by applying graduated pressure to the legs, which helps improve blood flow and reduces the risk of blood pooling and clot formation.

Complications and Long-Term Outlook of Phlebitis

While many cases of phlebitis resolve without significant complications, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and the long-term outlook for individuals affected by this condition. Understanding these aspects can emphasize the importance of prompt treatment and proper management.

Potential Complications

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Superficial phlebitis can sometimes progress to affect deeper veins
• Pulmonary Embolism: A potentially life-threatening complication where a blood clot travels to the lungs
• Post-thrombotic Syndrome: Long-term symptoms such as pain, swelling, and skin changes in the affected limb
• Chronic Venous Insufficiency: Persistent problems with blood flow in the affected veins
• Recurrence: Some individuals may experience repeated episodes of phlebitis

What is the risk of superficial phlebitis progressing to DVT? While the risk is generally low, studies have shown that about 10-20% of cases of superficial thrombophlebitis can progress to involve the deep venous system. This risk is higher if the superficial phlebitis is extensive or located near the junction with deep veins.

Long-Term Outlook

The prognosis for phlebitis is generally good, especially when diagnosed and treated promptly. However, the long-term outlook can vary depending on several factors:

• Type and severity of phlebitis
• Promptness of treatment
• Presence of underlying health conditions
• Adherence to treatment and prevention strategies

For many individuals, superficial phlebitis resolves within a few weeks with proper treatment. However, some may experience persistent symptoms or recurrence, necessitating ongoing management and preventive measures.

Can phlebitis recur after successful treatment? Yes, phlebitis can recur, especially in individuals with ongoing risk factors. Studies suggest that about 15-20% of people who have had superficial thrombophlebitis may experience a recurrence within 5 years. This underscores the importance of continued preventive measures and regular follow-ups with healthcare providers.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Phlebitis

Recognizing when to seek medical attention for phlebitis is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring timely treatment. While mild cases of superficial phlebitis may sometimes be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation.

Signs that Require Immediate Medical Attention

• Severe pain or swelling in the affected limb
• Rapid spread of redness or warmth along the vein
• Development of fever or chills
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Sudden onset of leg swelling, especially if it affects the entire limb
• Changes in skin color, particularly if the affected area turns pale or bluish

Why is shortness of breath a concerning symptom in the context of phlebitis? Shortness of breath, especially when accompanied by chest pain, could indicate a pulmonary embolism – a serious complication where a blood clot has traveled to the lungs. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

Follow-Up Care and Monitoring

Even after initial treatment, ongoing monitoring and follow-up care are important for managing phlebitis effectively:

• Regular check-ups with healthcare providers to assess healing and treatment effectiveness
• Ultrasound examinations to monitor clot resolution and vein health
• Adjustments to treatment plans as needed based on progress and symptoms
• Lifestyle modifications and preventive measures to reduce the risk of recurrence

How often should follow-up appointments be scheduled after phlebitis treatment? The frequency of follow-up appointments can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. Generally, an initial follow-up within 1-2 weeks of diagnosis is recommended, with subsequent appointments scheduled based on the individual’s progress and risk factors. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate follow-up schedule for your specific situation.

In conclusion, phlebitis is a manageable condition when diagnosed and treated promptly. By understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent complications and maintain vein health. Remember, any persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure proper management and prevent potential complications.

Phlebitis Yuma, AZ – Vein Inflammation

What is phlebitis?

The Vein Center of Arizona – Get effective treatment for phlebitis to lessen the pain and inflammation

Do you suffer from vein inflammation that goes hand in hand with painful sensations and visual skin changes? The chances are you have superficial thrombophlebitis. This disorder appears due to blood clots in the veins, resulting in painful hard lumps underneath the skin.

The sooner you start treating this problem, the better because a neglected case may transform into a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The Vein Center of Arizona is a dedicated medical center where we apply up-to-the-minute technologies to treat various vein disorders. Our qualified specialists have deep expertise in phlebitis treatment and are always ready to tackle cases of any complexity. If you’re looking for a fast and effective solution to your vein inflammation problem, don’t look any further. We provide thorough treatment to ensure you are back to optimal health in no time.

When is the right time to seek treatment for phlebitis?

According to a recent study, the probability of developing phlebitis escalates as you age. Further confirming these statistics is that half of the patients suffering from phlebitis are over 60.

Superficial thrombophlebitis occurs near the skin’s surface, while deep vein thrombophlebitis goes beyond the surface to affect the larger blood vessels. Superficial thrombophlebitis treatment is not as intense as for deep vein thrombophlebitis, as the latter is a more severe case and takes a longer time to cure.

With that said, how do you know if that warm sensation in your legs is just from the summer heat, or you should consider vein inflammation treatment?

To be on the safe and healthier side, here are phlebitis signs to watch out for:

• a red streak tracing the vein path

• inflammation, accompanied by a warm sensation around the vein

• unusual soreness of the surrounding skin

Most times, phlebitis is caused by trauma to a vein that results in blood clotting, usually sustained from surgical complications. Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, restricted blood flow due to lack of exercise, and prolonged activity like staying in the same position for hours.

The good news is that treatment for phlebitis in the leg is accessible. It is also easily resolvable, especially in the early stages.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms for superficial phlebitis may be worse when your leg is lowered, such as when getting out of bed.

Symptoms of superficial phlebitis may include:

• Obvious inflammation with a red streak along the path of the vein
• Localized tenderness near the inflammation
• A warm sensation associated with the inflammation
• The skin around the vein might be itchy or swollen

Avail yourself of strategic phlebitis management by the Vein Center of Arizona

Here at The Vein Center of Arizona, we have come up with effective non-invasive vein disease treatments that have proved to facilitate swift recovery.

Here is how we go about it:

• Diagnosis

First, we begin with problem identification. Thanks to our next-gen medical equipment, we can easily detect clots and obstructions. Venograms, for instance, are used to detect phlebitis in smaller veins. With an ultrasound, we carefully examine the body part, identify the problem and offer the best treatment.

• Treatment

Superficial thrombophlebitis treatment is carried out using compression stockings and specific anti-inflammatory medications. Most times, the cases are mild and do not need antibiotics. However, people with a history of Deep Vein Thrombophlebitis (DVT) are recommended to take anticoagulants.

Rely on our certified vein specialists to get rid of phlebitis once and for all

At The Vein Center of Arizona, we pride ourselves on having a team of brilliant vein specialists who know all the ins and outs of phlebitis treatment. Led by Dr. Paul Larson – MD, RPhS, and a Diplomate of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, our pros have performed countless procedures to bring thrombophlebitis patients back to normal life.

We pride ourselves on the quality of service we offer and can assure you that you are in the best of hands here at The Vein Center of Arizona. Fix an appointment with the best vein specialists in the state, and let us get you back on your feet!

The Vein Center of Arizona offers patients a wide variety of treatment options:

Comprehensive Treatment Plan

Developing a comprehensive treatment plan follows a thorough assessment. The assessment will normally consist of a review of your venous symptoms, a visual inspection of your problems and a thorough review of your history. The assessment completed by Dr. Paul Larson, supplemented by the diagnostic ultrasound if indicated by a registered vascular technologist will aid in the process.

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Conservative Management

Before seeking out a surgical or non-surgical treatment for varicose veins and other uncomfortable vein disorders, doctors may recommend conservative management techniques for patients. Conservative treatments may be required by an insurance company before other treatments can be considered.

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Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency ablation (or RFA) is a procedure used to reduce pain. An electrical current produced by a radio wave is used to heat up a small area of nerve tissue, thereby decreasing pain signals from that specific area.

Endovenous Laser Treatment

Endovenous Laser Treatment for the elimination of unhealthy varicose veins is the gold-standard for minimally invasive treatment of varicose veins. EVLT uses laser energy, which is a highly concentrated beam of light. They work by delivering this light energy to the tissue that is targeted with extreme precision, so as not to damage the surrounding tissue.

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Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is the primary treatment for spider veins and small superficial varicose veins that usually appear on the legs. They less commonly appear on other parts of the body. Sclerotherapy involves the injection of a chemical solution into a targeted spider vein or a reticular vein through a very fine needle.

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Foam Sclerotherapy

Foam sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive technique for men and women to eliminate unsightly varicose veins and spider veins. The procedure involves injecting a foam sclerosant in a blood vessel to close it. The blood reroutes itself through healthy veins, restoring more normal blood flow.

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Ambulatory Micro-Phlebectomy

Also known as ambulatory phlebectomy, this is a procedure that can be performed in the office and is commonly performed at the time of endovenous ablation. The procedure is intended to remove larger bulging varicose veins near the skin surface.

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The Primary Symptoms and Treatment Options for Phlebitis

PHLEBITIS Q & A

What Is Phlebitis?

Phlebitis is the inflammation of a vein. The type of phlebitis is characterized by the location of the affected veins:

• Superficial Phlebitis – Inflammation of veins near the surface of the skin is a less serious condition.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis – When phlebitis is in deeper veins, it is also known as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
• Thrombophlebitis – When the inflammation causes blood clotting, it is known as thrombophlebitis.

As with superficial phlebitis, acute superficial thrombophlebitis occurs just under the surface of the skin and should be monitored by a trained vascular physician. If phlebitis escalates to DVT and a clot occurs deeper in the body, the clot can migrate to other parts of the body and cause an embolism. Phlebitis generally occurs in leg veins, but vein inflammation can also affect arm veins.

What Causes Phlebitis?

Phlebitis can be caused by a variety of situations:

• varicose veins cause excessive stretching of the leg veins
• a blood clot develops, triggering an inflammatory response
• periods of prolonged sitting due to travel
• IV sites becoming tender and sore
• trauma to a vein

Frequently Asked Questions

Phlebitis Patient Education

What Are Phlebitis Symptoms?

Inflammation is the body’s response to tissue damage. Symptoms that may occur in areas affected by superficial phlebitis include:

• tenderness
• redness, including long, thin lines along the vein’s path
• warm to the touch
• skin may feel hard
• itching and burning
• throbbing sensations
• swollen skin
• discomfort
• worsening symptoms when leg is lowered
• low grade fever if infection

Symptoms of acute superficial thrombophlebitis and DVT are similar to those of superficial phlebitis but more intense:

• more severe redness, warmth, swelling
• increased pain and discomfort
• occasionally discoloration can be more blue than red
• one leg more swollen than the other
• more feelings of aching, throbbing and leg heaviness

What Are Risk Factors for Phlebitis?

Risk factors for phlebitis and thrombophlebitis include:

• being sedentary for long periods, due to travel, illness, injury, or lifestyle
• obesity
• smoking
• medication with estrogen (birth control, HRT, etc. )
• varicose veins
• blood clotting disorder
• cancer
• recent trauma to limb, especially if to a varicose vein
• pregnancy

Can Phlebitis Be Something Else?

Sometimes a bacterial infection called cellulitis can mimic phlebitis symptoms. Also, other auto-immune diseases and dermatologic conditions can appear like phlebitis. That is why it is important to get medical attention if you experience any symptoms. Many patients with superficial phlebitis also have an underlying condition called venous reflux. With venous reflux, the patient’s leg vein valves malfunction. This causes blood to flow back down into the legs, where it pools. It is helpful to treat the diseased veins to help prevent more superficial phlebitis.

How Is Phlebitis Diagnosed?

Phlebitis is diagnosed based on medical examination, medical history, symptoms, and venous ultrasound. It is important to seek medical attention if there are symptoms of phlebitis, allowing the condition to be monitored before it evolves to DVT.

Does Phlebitis Need Treatment?

If there are any symptoms of phlebitis, it is important to get diagnosed promptly. Early intervention can prevent any blood clots from causing an embolism if DVT is present. Once diagnosed, the vascular doctor will recommend a treatment plan that will also address any underlying vascular conditions.

What Are Phlebitis Treatments?

Conservative measures for phlebitis include compression stockings, elevation, and warm compresses. Medications may also be recommended, such as anti-inflammatories and prescribed antibiotics, if infection is present. Blood thinners may also be part of the treatment plan. If additional treatment is required, an interventional radiologist can perform minimally invasive procedures, such as sclerotherapy and ablation to treat the venous reflux, blood clots, varicose veins and/or any other underlying concerns.

TREATMENTS

What to Expect from Phlebitis Treatment?

Since only a small incision is needed, there are no stitches. Patients with phlebitis will be able to go home the same day as the procedure. Also, recovery time is much shorter than traditional surgery, so daily activities can often be resumed in 24 hours. In terms of recurrence, treating the underlying venous condition can have a high success rate in preventing more phlebitis.

As an interventional radiologist who specializes in vascular disease, Dr. Jilbert Eradat is well-qualified to handle phlebitis and thrombophlebitis. At Alliance, we use the latest protocols in minimally invasive procedures for managing challenging, high-risk cases in patients who otherwise would have no treatment option.

TREATMENTS

631 West Avenue Q, Suite A
Palmdale, CA 93551
Phone 661-480-5956
Fax 661-480-5976

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Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis | Vascular surgery

Facts:

• Phlebitis is an inflammation of the walls of the veins and can be caused by various types of damage to the vascular wall, causes a violation of the normal blood flow and forms a predisposition to the formation of blood clots

• Pain, swelling, redness and induration along the vein are the main symptoms of phlebitis

• Thrombophlebitis is the formation of thrombotic masses inside the lumen of a vein due to phlebitis

• There are thrombophlebitis of superficial and deep veins

• Superficial phlebitis often has a favorable prognosis and is better treated at home

• Deep vein thrombosis is a serious complication and requires urgent special treatment

• Simple measures prevent phlebitis

Superficial phlebitis affects the veins that run directly under the skin. With deep vein thrombophlebitis, blood clots form in the veins that go deep into the soft tissues. The presence of superficial phlebitis does not necessarily mean the development of deep vein thrombosis; superficial phlebitis on the arms and legs responds well to treatment and has a favorable prognosis. An exception to the rule is thrombosis of the great saphenous vein of the leg, which is a serious and dangerous disease and can be combined with deep vein thrombophlebitis of the leg.

Deep vein thrombophlebitis is a serious problem and can lead to life-threatening complications – thrombus flotation into the pulmonary artery with the development of thromboembolism. Thromboembolism of the pulmonary artery often ends in the rapid death of a person or makes him disabled.

Common causes and predisposing factors for the development of phlebitis are:

• Local vein trauma

• Prolonged involuntary immobilization, such as driving or long air travel

• Placement of intravenous catheters for treatment

• Postoperative period, especially after traumatological and orthopedic manipulations

• Long period of immobilization

• Varicose veins

• Concomitant oncological diseases and bleeding disorders

• Violation of normal venous outflow after removal of lymph nodes in breast cancer

• Taking hormonal drugs, including contraceptives

• Pregnancy

• Smoking and obesity

Symptoms

Pain, swelling, redness of the skin, thickening along the vein are the main symptoms of superficial phlebitis. Rarely, there is an increase in body temperature to subfebrile with deep vein phlebitis. Fever indicates the addition of a bacterial infection with the development of a septic form of thrombophlebitis. Palpation (when feeling with fingers) detection of a painful band under the skin indicates a high probability of thrombosis of the inflamed vein. With deep vein phlebitis, in addition to swelling, pain and redness of the skin, pain often appears when walking.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis of superficial thrombophlebitis is made in the presence of the above complaints of the patient. Ultrasound examination of the veins allows you to reliably confirm or refute the diagnosis. Diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis is more difficult and always requires an in-depth ultrasound examination. Ultrasound examination of veins in the ANDROMEDA Clinic is carried out on a modern apparatus of the expert level PHLLIPS. The method of ultrasound research is accurate, cheap and reliable. CT scan, MR angiography and venography with contrast enhancement are used much less frequently according to indications.

A laboratory test for D-dimers, which is also performed at the ANDROMEDA Clinic, allows you to evaluate the coagulation ability of the blood and the tendency to thrombosis. It is performed after the appointment of a vascular surgeon at the ANDROMEDA Clinic.

It is necessary to differentiate phlebitis with symptoms of cellulitis, skin manifestations of allergies, dermatitis, inflammation of the lymph nodes and blood vessels, insect bites, etc. Only a vascular surgeon can reliably diagnose and prescribe the correct treatment. Sometimes you may even need a skin biopsy and a consultation with a dermatologist, who also accepts at the ANDROMEDA Clinic.

Treatment

Treatment of phlebitis depends on the affected area, the prevalence of the process, symptoms and comorbidities.

In general, for the treatment of superficial phlebitis, the use of topical treatment and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is sufficient. Compression stockings are also used in the treatment of superficial phlebitis as prescribed by the vascular surgeon of the ANDROMEDA Clinic. Antibiotics are prescribed according to strict indications when a bacterial infection is attached. If the cause of phlebitis is an intravenous catheter, it must be removed.

With deep venous thrombosis, confirmed by ultrasound, anticoagulants (drugs that thin the blood) are prescribed by the attending physician. The choice of anticoagulant and its dosage is carried out exclusively by the vascular surgeon.

In exceptional cases, with the development of widespread thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities, it may be necessary to install a cava filter in the inferior vena cava to prevent pulmonary embolism. The cava filter is installed in a specialized angiosurgical operating room.

The healing process for phlebitis can take several weeks, and the use of anticoagulants lasts from a week to a month after clinical recovery.

Prevention of phlebitis and thrombophlebitis

Preventive measures are simple and easy to do:

• Early activation of patients in the postoperative period

• Leg exercises for long flights and car trips

• Good care of intravenous catheters

• Stop smoking, reduce body weight to normal

Compression stockings are often recommended for wear, especially in patients after deep vein thrombosis. Patients with low mobility, especially those undergoing orthopedic surgery, are prescribed anticoagulants in the hospital and after discharge from the hospital.

Phlebitis treatment – Promedica Medical Center Belgorod

Phlebitis or thrombophlebitis – inflammation of the vein wall, provoking the formation of thrombosis. Pathology develops as a result of varicose veins.

Also, phlebitis can occur due to causes not related to varicose veins. For example, as a complication after intravenous therapy, when the drug is injected into a vein through a catheter. There is an allergic reaction to the components of the injected drug and the material of the cannula.

Causes of phlebitis

At risk are older people, women, patients suffering from peripheral vascular and nerve damage, diabetes mellitus. The older a person is, the more attentive he should be to his well-being. So, in the course of the study, symptoms of phlebitis were found in more than 50 percent of patients over 60 years old.

Allergic phlebitis occurs against the background of hypersensitivity to the materials from which the catheters are made. For example, Teflon derivatives can provoke an allergic reaction. The injected solution and the rate of intravenous infusion in some cases provoke hypersensitivity of the vein. Therefore, in the medical center “Promedica” carefully collect an anamnesis and note in the history of the disease all irritating substances. The doctor selects drugs with minimal side effects and catheters, from materials suitable even for people prone to allergies.

Symptoms of phlebitis

Signs of phlebitis are easily visible. Thickening of the skin at the site of inflammation of the vein is accompanied by pain of varying degrees. The skin turns red, its temperature rises. Sometimes a person may feel weak and worse in general health. With such symptoms, we recommend that you immediately contact a phlebologist. Without waiting for an increase in body temperature and complications.

Possible complications of phlebitis

Venous thrombosis or phlebothrombosis is a dangerous worsening of the course of the disease. Thrombosis provokes the development of chronic leg edema and trophic ulcers, which heal for a long time and with difficulty. Without treatment, phlebitis can be complicated by an abscess or acute diffuse purulent inflammation – phlegmon.

Phlebitis diagnostics

Post-injection phlebitis is easily diagnosed by examining the vein at the site of the catheter insertion, as well as after studying information about the injected drug or possible injury.

Phlebitis and venous thrombosis can be detected by the results of an ultrasound duplex scan and a coagulogram, a laboratory test that shows the ability of blood to clot.

All diagnostic procedures are conveniently carried out in one place – at the medical center “Promedica”. The phlebologist of the center will examine the patient and give a referral for research to establish a diagnosis and subsequent treatment.

Treatment of phlebitis

The treatment regimen is affected by the degree of the disease and its localization, the presence of acute vein thrombosis and varicose veins, as well as other diseases. As a rule, the doctor prescribes a complex treatment based on anti-inflammatory drugs and wearing individually selected compression stockings.

Low molecular weight heparin has been successfully used in sudden superficial vein thrombosis.

Already from the beginning of therapy, patients of the medical center “Promedica” observe a decrease in pain and inflammation. With the secondary occurrence of phlebitis or its chronic form, it is possible to get rid of the disease surgically. When an inflamed vein is removed, venous thrombosis no longer bothers a person.

A prerequisite for recovery is the wearing of medical medical knitwear, the duration of its use is determined by a specialist.

Phlebitis prophylaxis

To prevent inflammation of the veins, we recommend taking regular walks.