What is Thrombophlebitis?

Thrombophlebitis is a health problem characterized by intravascular inflammation and clot formation. This condition usually occurs in superficial veins in the legs and can often occur in individuals who are immobile for long periods of time or in patients who have had an intravenous catheter placed. Complaints may include pain, swelling and redness. Treatment may include rest, medication, and frequent leg movements.

This condition usually develops slowly and usually occurs in deep veins, but can also occur in surface veins. To prevent this condition, it is important to adopt an active lifestyle and avoid sitting for long periods of time.

What are the Types of Thrombophlebitis?

There are different types of thrombophlebitis, these generally vary depending on the location of the vein in which it occurs and the area it affects. Some of the main types are:

Superficial Thrombophlebitis: It occurs in superficial cases, usually in superficial veins under the skin. This condition usually has milder symptoms and may cause skin redness, increased warmth and pain.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Deep vein thrombosis is a more serious condition that usually occurs in the deep veins. This type can affect large deep veins in the legs. DVT can lead to pulmonary embolism, a potentially serious complication.

Local Thrombophlebitis: Involves inflammation and clot formation within the vein, usually due to a cannula or needle. This type is a condition that is usually treatable.

Septic Thrombophlebitis: It is a condition accompanied by an infection in addition to inflammation of the vein. It usually occurs as a result of a bacterial infection and may require rapid treatment.

Superficial Thrombophlebitis: It is a condition that occurs in superficial veins and generally affects a more limited area. This condition is often associated with varicose veins.

What Causes Thrombophlebitis?

Thrombophlebitis can have many causes and usually occurs when a combination of factors occurs. Some of the common causes of thrombophlebitis:

Damage to the Vessel Wall: Damage to the lining of the vessel can increase the risk of this condition. This damage may occur due to trauma, surgery, injections, or other causes within the vein.

Slowing Blood Flow: Slowing or stopping blood flow can facilitate clot formation. Situations such as prolonged inactivity, long journeys, or sitting for long periods of time in the legs can affect blood flow.

Blood Clotting Ability: The condition where blood clots more easily than normal may increase your risk. This condition may be due to genetic factors, heart disease or other medical conditions.

Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes, especially conditions such as pregnancy, birth control pills, or hormone replacement therapy, may increase the risk of occurrence.

Smoking: Smoking can negatively affect vascular health and increase the likelihood of this condition occurring.

Varicose veins: Varicose veins can cause weakening of the vein walls and clot formation within the vein.

Infections: Infections can lead to inflammation and clot formation within the vein. Infected intravenous (IV) lines, in particular, can trigger this condition.

Age: As we get older, blood vessel walls may weaken and clot formation may become more likely.

What are the symptoms of thrombophlebitis?

Symptoms of thrombophlebitis may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the area affected. Common symptoms of thrombophlebitis include:

• Pain and swelling in the affected area,
• Skin redness and feeling of warmth,
• The affected vein is usually prominent,
• arteriosclerosis,
• Pain and tenderness upon contact or movement of the affected area,
• Swelling in the leg or arm,
• In infected cases, body temperature may rise, causing fever.

How is Thrombophlebitis Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of thrombophlebitis is usually made through clinical examination, medical history taking, and imaging tests. A physical examination evaluates swollen and tender veins, while a medical history taking examines the patient’s general health status and history. Doppler ultrasonography is used to evaluate blood flow, while venography and more complex imaging methods (MRI and CT) can help identify clots within the vein.

The D-Dimer test measures a substance released during clot formation. A combination of these tests may be effective in confirming the diagnosis. Following a correct diagnosis, appropriate treatment can be started.

How to Treat Thrombophlebitis?

Treatment for thrombophlebitis is usually determined by the severity and type of the patient’s condition. Some common methods used in the treatment of thrombophlebitis:

Anticoagulants and Medications: Anticoagulants prevent clot formation by reducing the blood’s ability to clot.

Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to reduce inflammation and control pain.

Compression Stockings: For cases that occur on the legs or arms, doctors often recommend compression stockings. These socks are designed to ensure regular blood flow and reduce swelling.

Elevation: Keeping the affected area in an elevated position (above heart level) can help improve blood circulation and reduce swelling.

Hot or Cold Application: Hot or cold applications can relieve pain and reduce swelling. However, a doctor should be consulted before using these methods.

Surgical Intervention: Rarely, in cases of large clots or complications, surgical intervention may be required. In this procedure, called thrombectomy, the clot is removed directly.

Antibiotic Treatment in the Presence of Infection: If this condition is associated with infection, doctors recommend antibiotic treatment.