Phlebitis occurs when a vein becomes inflamed. When the inflammation is the result of blood clots, the condition is called thrombophlebitis. This may result in irritation, pain, and blocked blood flow in the veins. Causes may include:
- Blood pooling as a result of inactivity
- Being obese
- Injuries to the limbs
- Trauma
- Inherited defects
Symptoms vary and may include:
- Throbbing or burning
- Hardness, warmness or tenderness of the afflicted area
- Fever
Treatments may include medications like ibuprofen, antibiotics (if an infection has also occurred), warm compresses, compression stockings, and various blood-thinners (if the diagnosis is Deep Vein Thrombosis).
