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What Are Phlebitis and Thrombosis?

Phlebitis is an inflammation of a vein. Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot that may partially or completely block a blood vessel. A clot located in an inflamed, blood vessel is called thrombophlebitis. A clot formation in a deeper vein is called a deep vein thrombosis. Blood clots may follow injury, surgery, having a baby or being on bed rest for a long time. They may also be associated with infection. The primary danger in thrombophlebitis is that the clot may move and travel to a vital organ, such as the lung, causing serious damage.

Symptoms of phlebitis may include:

• a hard and cord-like vein that is very sensitive to pressure or touch
• a surrounding area that is red and warm to the touch
• a slight fever
• swelling of the leg or arm

If you have symptoms of thrombophlebitis or deep vein thrombosis your health care provider may order a doppler ultrasound examination (a test that uses sound waves to locate clots); or a venogram in which dye is injected into a vein, usually in the foot. X-rays are then taken to show the bloodflow and any blockages that may be present. Lung scans may be ordered if there is concern that blood clots have traveled to the lungs.

Thrombosis is treated with blood thinning drugs, such as heparin, coumadin, dalteparin, enoxaparin, and tinzaprin. These drugs slow down the formation of blood clots. Bed rest with moist warm compresses and keeping the arm or leg raised higher with pillows are usually required.

Healthy lifestyle habits can help prevent phlebitis and thrombosis. These include:

• stop smoking
• exercise regularly
• control your weight
• keep your legs raised when you are in bed or sitting down
• avoid wearing garters, knee-high stockings, and tight pantyhose
• wear properly fitted elastic stockings
• avoid crossing your legs or ankles when you sit
• avoid sitting for long periods of time be sure the birth control pills you take are safe for you

For more information, speak with your health care provider. If your health care provider would like to refer you to a cardiologist, ask for a referral to a Saint Vincent Heart Center cardiac specialist. Information is also available by contacting your local chapter of the American Heart Association or call the national office at (800) 242-8721 or visit their website at www.americanheart.org.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. HIL File CARD4291.RF2 VRS# 6101 Data Version 7.0
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