Phlebitis means an inflammation of the veins that are close to the surface of the skin. Little blood clots can form in these superficial veins and cause the vein to get inflamed. This often happens in people that have a condition called “venous insufficiency” (most commonly recognized by varicose, twisted or swollen veins).

It also commonly occurs in people that have or had an intravenous catheter ('IV' drip). Cancer patients and people receiving chemotherapy are more prone to get phlebitis.

Symptoms

Pain
Tenderness
Redness or swelling along the length of a vein

Treatment

Contact your doctor to discuss your symptoms. Phlebitis and the forming of blood clots in superficial veins can potentially lead to blood clots in the deeper veins causing deep vein thrombosis. If you have any swelling in the arm or leg, see a doctor immediately.

Your doctor can decide whether you need further testing.

A simple phlebitis is treated by easing the symptoms. This can be done by using heating or cooling pads, taking an over-the-counter pain killer, and raising the affected arm or leg.

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The stories shared below are not written by Buoy employees. Buoy does not endorse any of the information in these stories. Whenever you have questions or concerns about a medical condition, you should always contact your doctor or a healthcare provider.

Jeffrey M. Rothschild, MD, MPH.

Associate Professor of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Dr. Rothschild has been a faculty member at Brigham and Women’s Hospital where he is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. He currently practices as a hospitalist at Newton Wellesley Hospital. In 1978, Dr. Rothschild received his MD at the Medical College of Wisconsin and trained in internal medicine followed by a fellowship in critical care medicine. He also received an MP...

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