Phlebitis is the vein inflammation that causes pain and discomfort on the legs and arms. Thrombophlebitis is a condition in which there is blood clot and inflammation on the legs. Phlebitis is very painful and the inflammation may occur either in the superficial veins or in the deep veins.
Superficial phlebitis is the condition in which the upper layer of the veins gets inflamed and it can be easily treated by topical ointments that reduce inflammation. But phlebitis that occurs in the deep veins is called deep vein thrombosis that affects the veins found deep inside the legs and arms. In rare cases, the blood clots that develop on the veins may move towards the lungs causing dangerous situation like pulmonary embolism.
Phlebitis Causes
Phlebitis that is superficial is caused when a catheter (venflon) is inserted into the vein or when a person is put on intravenous catheter. In this case, the superficial vein gets inflamed and irritated. The condition of varicose veins in the legs also belongs to superficial phlebitis.