Why is phlebitis so dangerous?

With phlebitis, a clot will block blood flow in a vein. But how do you get phlebitis like this and how can you prevent it?

Superficial phlebitis in which the clot is in a small vein on the surface causes pain but is not dangerous. It is a risk factor for deep phlebitis. This is dangerous because the clot is larger and can come loose. It can enter the lungs via the bloodstream and cause a pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal.

With superficial phlebitis, the vein is red, warm, hard and tender to the touch. Deep vein phlebitis causes pain in the calf or thigh with a feeling of warmth and a swollen calf. There is then pain in the calf when the foot is bent in the direction of the back of the foot. If you have these symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately.

There is an increased risk of phlebitis if you have varicose veins, cancer, pregnancy, smoking, hormone treatment, procedures that require you to stay in bed for a long time or if you have clotting problems.

Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thrombophlebitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354607

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2023-12-11 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024