Phlebitis: Happens when a vein

Phlebitis happens when a vein just under your skin becomes inflamed. This can be due to physical damage (from a needle), injury, or a health condition (such as varicose veins). Also known as superficial thrombophlebitis, or superficial vein thrombosis, phlebitis usually gets better on its own without complications – unlike deep vein thrombosis (DVT) where a blood clot forms in a deeper vein and can be life-threatening. Phlebitis (or venitis) is inflammation of a vein, usually in the legs. It most commonly occurs in superficial veins. Phlebitis often occurs in conjunction with thrombosis (clotting inside blood vessels) and is then called thrombophlebitis or superficial thrombophlebitis. Unlike deep vein thrombosis, the probability that superficial thrombophlebitis will cause a clot to break up and be transported in pieces to the lung is very low. [1] Phlebitis usually occurs in one of the superficial veins of the lower leg. The condition is more serious when it occurs in a more deeply situated blood vessel, since if a blood clot develops there and then breaks away and begins to circulate in the bloodstream, it can cause a serious circulatory obstruction. The indications of phlebitis include localized pain, swelling, redness, and heat over the inflamed vein. Examination may reveal a tender, cordlike mass under the skin at the site. If ... Phlebitis is a vein inflammation that can bring both cosmetic and medical concerns. Read below to get an insight into phlebitis .