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What are some causes of phlebitis? How can you prevent phlebitis?

2 min read

Last updated on Aug 22, 2022

What are some causes of phlebitis? How can you prevent phlebitis?

Phlebitis is a condition that results when a vein in the body becomes inflamed. Veins can become inflamed for a variety of reasons, including infection, injury, or the formation of blood clots. Veins located near the skin surface such as those in arms or legs are the veins most often affected. Phlebitis can occur in any vein in the body, but it is most common in the veins of the legs.

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Causes of Phlebitis

  • Infection
    Infection is a common factor which can lead to phlebitis. Bacteria, viruses, or other germs can infect the vein causing inflammation and pain. To prevent infection, we always follow strict infection-control methods when treating varicose veins.
  • Blood clots
    When blood clots form in a vein, they can cause phlebitis. This can occur after an injury to the vein, or if the blood flow through the vein is slowed or stopped. To prevent blood clots, keep wounds clean, avoid vein injuries, and give ample room for recovery after injuries.
  • Trauma to the vein
    Trauma to a vein a key cause of phlebitis. This may result from sport injuries, falls, or procedures performed on veins including needles, IVs or blood draws. At Vein Doctors Sydney, we use the latest technologies to minimise trauma to veins when performing our varicose veins procedure.

Phlebitis Symptoms

The symptoms of phlebitis can vary depending on the cause and severity of your condition. Some common symptoms of phlebitis may include:

  • pain, tenderness or swelling around the vein
  • redness or discoloured skin
  • warmth or burning sensation around the vein
  • itching or a feeling of skin tightness over the vein
  • increased pain when the vein is compressed
  • vein inflammation that may spread up the arm or leg

How Can We Prevent Phlebitis?

There are a few things you can do to help prevent phlebitis. Some of these things include:

  • Wearing compression stockings: This will help improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of developing phlebitis.
  • Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time: If you have to sit or stand for long periods of time (for example, at your job), take breaks to move around and stretch.
  • Avoid crossing your legs: This can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of developing phlebitis.
  • Avoid wearing tight clothing: This can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of developing phlebitis.
  • Elevating the affected limb: This can promote blood flow and prevent blood clots from enlarging.
  • Application of heat: Applying heat to the affected area can help to improve blood circulation and will help to reduce inflammation.
  • Exercise: Regular exercise is good for overall health, helping to both improve blood circulation and prevent phlebitis.

To prevent phlebitis, it is important to keep your veins healthy. People with phlebitis should seek medical care if they experience pain, swelling, redness, warmth around the vein, or if they develop a fever.

Book an appointment with Vein Doctors Sydney for the effective treatment of phlebitis, varicose veins, spider veins, and other vein conditions. Our Sydney vein clinic provides a variety of minimally invasive treatments that are tailored to your specific needs.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment.