What Are the Risk Factors for Phlebitis?
“Phlebitis” refers to the inflammation of a vein. There are two types of phlebitis: superficial and deep vein. Superficial phlebitis occurs in the veins near the surface of the skin, while thrombophlebitis — also known as deep vein thrombosis — occurs in deeper veins.
While these conditions share a name, they’re quite different. Though mildly uncomfortable, superficial phlebitis is relatively common. It often occurs after a mild trauma to a vein, such as when a patient is given an IV catheter. Fortunately, it subsides quickly and rarely has serious health effects.
Thrombophlebitis, on the other hand, occurs as a result of a blood clot in a vein located deep inside the body. If the blood clot manages to break loose, it can travel up to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. For this reason, deep vein thrombosis is a cause for great concern.
Here’s what causes phlebitis, how to differentiate superficial phlebitis and thrombophlebitis, and what to do if you suspect you have one of these conditions.
Understanding Phlebitis
Superficial phlebitis is almost always caused by a medical procedure, particularly those that require an IV catheter. Conversely, thrombophlebitis is most likely to be caused by risk-increasing lifestyle factors, though it can be caused by an injury to a vein.
A sedentary lifestyle or prolonged inactivity are among the most common risk factors for thrombophlebitis. As such, people who have a high risk for thrombophlebitis are often advised to wear compression stockings or take frequent breaks to walk and stretch while traveling by plane, train, bus, or car. Patients who have been placed on bedrest are also often advised to wear compression garments to prevent blood clots.
In addition to inactivity, obesity, smoking, and even pregnancy can contribute to one’s risk for deep vein thrombosis. Certain cancers and blood disorders may contribute as well, and there’s some evidence linking birth control pills to the condition. Finally, varicose veins are considered one of the leading risk factors for thrombophlebitis, which is why many doctors will advise patients with varicose veins to have them treated.
While, in some cases, deep vein thrombosis will not exhibit any symptoms until it has become quite serious, in other cases, patients will experience noticeable symptoms including pain and swelling in their legs, skin discoloration, or ulcers.
Patients who don’t exhibit symptoms may first realize that they have thrombophlebitis when they have a pulmonary embolism, the symptoms of which include sudden, inexplicable shortness of breath. If you notice any of these signs, it’s wise to get in touch with a medical professional right away, as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolisms require immediate medical attention.
Treating Phlebitis
While superficial phlebitis tends to resolve itself, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a doctor if you notice symptoms of any kind of phlebitis, as they may be an indicator of a more serious form of the condition. It’s also a good idea to get your varicose veins treated, as they can greatly increase your risk of blood clots.
If you do have thrombophlebitis, you’ll likely need to take a blood thinner to break up clots. Typically, you’ll be on this medication for around three to six months, after which time your deep vein thrombosis should be resolved.
If you have varicose veins and are concerned about your risk of deep vein thrombosis, or if you’ve noticed symptoms of phlebitis, contact the vein care experts at the Kimmel Institute. As Boca Raton’s leading vein treatment center, we offer a wide variety of treatments and services to help keep your veins healthy. Contact us today.