Phlebitis and thrombosis, sometimes referred to as superficial vein phlebitis and superficial vein thrombosis, are conditions that affect the veins close to the skin, primarily in the leg. Phlebitis is inflammation of the veins and thrombosis is a blood clot in the vein. The combination of the two—inflammation and a blood clot—is called thrombophlebitis. These conditions are related to a more serious condition, deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Risk factors for phlebitis and thrombosis include:
- Varicose veins
- Previous history of phlebitis
- Prolonged periods of sitting (in a car, on an airplane, etc.)
- Age
- Gender
- Hormones (during pregnancy or from estrogen contraceptives)
- Smoking
If your doctor suspects you have phlebitis or thrombosis, you may be referred to CMC's Vein & Vascular Specialists for further evaluation and treatment.