In my conversations with patients, I frequently hear questions about phlebitis. Accurate information is important to help calm fears people have about phlebitis, which is inflammation of the vein but it could involve one or several veins that are connected to each other. Naturally, people want to know how to tell if they have phlebitis and what to do about it. The area around the vein can become irritated, red, and tender to the touch.
There are definitely ways that you can tell that you do have phlebitis if you happen to be wondering or are concerned. I go into this in a little more detail in the video below. You can also read on for more information on this common, yet treatable condition.
What will phlebitis look like?
If you do have phlebitis, it is because a vein is inflamed, leading to pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness right over the vein and this is how the doctor makes the diagnosis. Because of this, the physical appearance of phlebitis will be noticeable along with your symptoms. If you are able to feel a knot-like vein that is swollen and tender right on the surface of your skin and notice redness and swelling, you can almost be certain that it is due to phlebitis. Most specialists recommend a vein ultrasound to look for other blood clots when phlebitis is present in the leg.
Phlebitis found in the deeper veins, however, is more difficult to detect and find because it is not visible from the surface. You can feel the effects of it, though, because most people feel pain, swelling, discomfort, or fatigue even if they can't see any redness or feel a vein.
Lastly, if you are suffering from phlebitis due to an IV, it will be quite apparent. You will see redness and swelling around the area of the IV. This type of phlebitis usually heals on its own over time, after the IV is removed, and typically does not need any specialized treatment.
What are my next steps?
Whether you are seeing the physical signs of phlebitis, battling the uncomfortable and often painful symptoms of phlebitis, or both, talk to your primary care provider and ask about a vein ultrasound of your legs to look for blood clots. Again, phlebitis is an uncomfortable condition, but it is a common and very treatable one. Usually, it responds to leg elevation, ice, and non-steroidal medication (Aleve or ibuprofen). Occasionally, steroid medicine may be needed.
