Phlebitis Specialist

Goldman Vein Institute Our Services Phlebitis
Goldman Vein Institute - - Board Certified Vein and Vascular Specialist

Goldman Vein Institute

Board Certified Vein and Vascular Specialists located in Abacoa, Jupiter, FL & Wellington Mall, Wellington, FL

If one or more of your leg veins becomes swollen, a condition called phlebitis, don’t wait to seek professional medical help. Without prompt diagnosis and treatment, phlebitis increases your risk of more serious health problems and may even affect your mobility. At Goldman Vein Institute in Jupiter and Wellington, Florida, board-certified vein and vascular specialists Saluja Varghese, MD, RVT, RPVI, Alexander Goldman, MD, RVT, RPVI, and the caring team provide safe, effective treatments for phlebitis on-site. To schedule an appointment, call the office nearest you or book online today.

Phlebitis Q & A

What is phlebitis?

If you have phlebitis, it means you have an inflamed vein. Your veins are responsible for carrying blood from your organs back to your heart. 

Phlebitis can occur for a variety of reasons, but it’s usually due to a blood vessel injury. Common causes of phlebitis include infections, small blood clots, surgery, broken bones, or the placement of an IV catheter.

What are the symptoms of phlebitis?

The symptoms of phlebitis vary in severity and can affect an arm or leg. Common indications of phlebitis include:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Warmth
  • Tenderness
  • Calf pain
  • Thigh pain

As the inflammation caused by phlebitis gets worse, you might also notice visible red “streaking” on your arm or leg.

Who is at risk of phlebitis?

Phlebitis affects people of all ages, races, and genders. However, several factors increase your risk, including:

  • A history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  • Sitting for long periods of time
  • Certain cancers
  • Being pregnant
  • Being overweight

Your lifestyle habits can also play a role. For example, you’re more likely to experience phlebitis if you use tobacco or drink alcohol regularly.

How is phlebitis diagnosed?

To diagnose phlebitis, your Goldman Vein Institute provider conducts a physical exam, asks you about your symptoms, and reviews your medical history. Next, your provider orders an ultrasound of your affected limb. An ultrasound is a type of diagnostic imaging that uses soundwaves to monitor your blood flow. 

If the ultrasound doesn’t provide enough information, your provider might also perform a venography. A venography is a type of diagnostic imaging that checks for the presence of a blood clot.

How is phlebitis treated?

Treatment of phlebitis depends on the severity of the condition. If you have superficial phlebitis, your Goldman Vein Institute provider might recommend rest, warm compresses, and prescription antibiotics.

If your phlebitis is due to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), you might need to take prescription anticoagulants. This type of medication makes it harder for your blood to clot.

If your phlebitis is severe and doesn’t respond to conservative treatments, your provider might recommend installing a filter. A filter can’t prevent blood clots altogether, but it can break them up and stop them from reaching your lungs.

To schedule a phlebitis consultation at Goldman Vein Institute, call the nearest office or book online today.

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