Phlebitis, also known as superficial thrombophlebitis or superficial vein thrombosis, is an inflammation of veins near the surface of the skin, usually in the legs. In this article we will discuss the causes, symptoms and procedures available for phlebitis, to help provide a better understanding of the condition so that you can effectively treat it once and for all.
What causes phlebitis?
The causes of phlebitis is uncertain but it could be associated to other health conditions including varicose veins, thrombophilia, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and Behcet’s disease. Phlebitis tends to settle on its own within 1 – 2 weeks.
The following risk factors can also increase your chances of getting phlebitis:
- Pregnant
- Overweight
- Older
- Smoking
- Alcohol misuse
- Dehydration
- Sit/lie for prolonged periods of time
- Irritation, infection or soft tissue injury
- Blood that is more likely to clot from medications such as hormone therapy or birth control pills or other illnesses such as cancer, connective tissue disorders, or inherited blood clotting conditions
What are the symptoms of phlebitis?
Patients have reported a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Changes to the colour and texture of the affected area – red, thick, hard and lumpy
- Localised swelling in the legs and feet
- Warm, itchy skin
- Pain and discomfort
What are the treatment options for phlebitis?
If you are ever in doubt about your phlebitis, particularly if your symptoms do not ease or get worse after 2 weeks, we recommend speaking to an expert vascular consultant like the ones we have here in the Premier Veins team.
The consultant will perform a detailed examination including a medical history and symptoms overview, and a non-invasive duplex ultrasound scan. This will allow them to assess blood flow and detect poorly functioning valves to help fully determine the underlying cause of your condition and provide a diagnosis and information on the best treatment plans available to you, including anticoagulant blood-thinning medications, and varicose vein treatment.
- Anticoagulant blood-thinning medications – prevent an existing clot from becoming larger and extending into the deep veins. They can be taken orally.
- Varicose vein treatment – these include Radiofrequency Ablation, Endovenous Laser and Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy. For more information about these varicose vein treatments, click here.
How can we help?
At Premier Veins, we offer a FREE no-obligation consultation for anyone considering phlebitis treatment at one of our private clinics across the West Midlands, including Birmingham and Solihull. The consultation will provide you with an opportunity to:
- Meet the award-winning team of vascular consultant surgeons who will be carrying out your treatment;
- Discuss our minimally invasive treatment options and all-inclusive pricing plans; and
- Ask any questions that you may have about our services.
To get started, click here and book your FREE no-obligation consultation or call 0333 366 2246 to speak to a member of our friendly receptionist team today.