User:Mr. Ibrahem/Phlebitis
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Phlebitis is inflammation of a vein.[1] It generally results in pain, swelling, and redness of the area in question.[1] Hardness of the vein may also occur.[1] Complications may include deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.[2]
Phlebitis | |
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Other names | Venitis |
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Veins in the popliteal area | |
Medical specialty | Emergency medicine |
Symptoms | Pain, swelling, redness[1] |
Complications | Deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism[2] |
Usual onset | Older people[1] |
Types | Infusion phlebitis, superficial thrombophlebitis[3] |
Risk factors | Intravenous catheters, varicose veins, cancer, pregnancy, poor mobility[4][5] |
Differential diagnosis | Cellulitis, hematoma, lymphangitis, tendonitis[2] |
Treatment | Warmth, pain medication (NSAIDs), anticoagulants[4][3] |
Frequency | Relatively common[5][2] |
It may occur in about 30% of people with intravenous catheters; though only 4% of cases are severe.[5] Risk factors include longer duration of catheter use and giving antibiotics through it.[5] Underlying mechanisms may include injury to the vein, chemical irritation, and bacterial infection.[1] Another cause is blood clotting, a condition known as superficial thrombophlebitis.[4] Risk factors include varicose veins, cancer, pregnancy, and poor mobility.[4] Usually the legs are involved.[4]
While evidence to support treatment is low, efforts may include the application of warmth and pain medication.[6][3] When do due a blood clot treatment may include elevating the legs, NSAIDs, and occasionally anticoagulants.[4][7] Older people are more commonly affected.[1] In cases due to intravenous catheters females are more commonly affected than males.[5]