Do you worry about phlebitis? Have you been prescribed antibiotics or creams for your phlebitis? My name is Dr Haroun Gajraj. I am a specialist vascular surgeon and I have been treating people with vein problems for over 30 years. I have established a team of doctors and nurses who can help you with your phlebitis. Here are 7 things you should know.
1 Phlebitis is not caused by an infection and antibiotics are not necessary. Recent reviews in the medical literature suggest that antibiotics are frequently prescribed for phlebitis. Not only is this ineffective, but it costs our healthcare system and it may contribute to antibiotic resistance.
2 Phlebitis most commonly affects the leg veins and it causes swelling, tenderness and redness along the vein. Less common sites include the arm and the chest.
3 The diagnosis requires a duplex ultrasound scan. Conditions such as cellulitis can mimic phlebitis so confirming the correct diagnosis with a duplex ultrasound scan is essential and it ensures you get the right treatment.
4 The fundamental problem causing the inflammation in the vein is clot formation which can spread to the deep veins causing a deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolus. Many experts suggest that the term phlebitis should be replaced by the term superficial venous thrombosis. This term more accurately describes the potential for DVT.
5 The duplex ultrasound scan should not only check the area that is painful, but both legs should be examined for a possible deep vein thrombosis. When someone has phlebitis, they can be in a so-called hypercoagulable state in which the blood is sticky. That means that clots can develop elsewhere in the body, including in the deep veins of the other leg.
6 Phlebitis in varicose veins often recurs and people with varicose veins and phlebitis should have treatment to deal with their varicose veins.
7 Phlebitis in the absence of any varicose veins is a particularly serious condition. Some people with this condition have an unsuspected malignancy and so careful screening is needed to ensure they have cancer treatment as soon as possible.
If you want to know more about us, what we do and how we can help you with your phlebitis, why not give us a call on 01935 873951 or use our contact form. We have over a hundred testimonials and reviews from patients we have treated. You can speak to one of our advisors and you can request our free information pack. We look forward to helping get back your healthy legs.