Phlebitis, or inflammation of the veins, can be caused by blood clots, surgery, inactivity, lifestyle choices, pregnancy, blood disorders, and cancer. Risk factors include smoking and obesity, but a healthy lifestyle can reduce the chances of developing the condition. Medical monitoring is necessary for those diagnosed with phlebitis.
Inflammation of the veins, known medically as phlebitis, occurs when veins become swollen and irritated. The causes of inflammation of the veins are varied and in some cases the direct cause of this condition is never found. The development of blood clots is thought to be the most common cause of the condition. Other potential causes include surgical procedures, physical injuries, and lifestyle choices.
Blood clots are a major cause of vein inflammation. Blood clots can develop in the veins due to medical conditions such as heart disease or circulation problems. Many surgical procedures also carry the risk of causing blood clots. In fact, this is one of the main complications that the medical team will try to prevent during and after the surgery.
Prolonged periods of inactivity can contribute to the development of venous inflammation. When the body doesn’t move for long periods of time, blood may not be able to circulate properly. This often causes blood to pool inside the veins. This pooling of blood can turn into a blood clot or the excessive pressure can cause the vein to swell.
Certain lifestyle choices can lead a person to be at greater risk of developing inflammation of the veins. Some of these risk factors include smoking and obesity. These risk factors are significantly reduced if the patient stops smoking and adopts a healthier lifestyle. A healthy diet and exercise program can significantly reduce the chances of vein inflammation for many people.
Inflammation of the veins is relatively common during pregnancy and tends to go away on its own after the baby is born. If this inflammation causes a significant amount of pain or discomfort, you should see a doctor for further evaluation. Women who take birth control pills or other forms of hormone therapy may have an increased risk of inflammation and blood clots, particularly women who are older than 35.
Blood disorders or some types of cancer can cause phlebitis. Patients with these conditions will likely be monitored closely by medical professionals in an effort to prevent these types of complications. Physical injuries, especially those involving the arms or legs, often cause some degree of inflammation involving the veins. Any questions or concerns about inflammation of the veins or the risks of developing blood clots should be addressed with a doctor. Patients who have been diagnosed with phlebitis usually need to be monitored closely by a doctor so that any complications can be diagnosed as soon as possible.
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