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Phlebitis (superficial thrombophlebitis)

Overview

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Symptoms of phlebitis include pain, tenderness or swelling in the affected area, and changes to the colour and texture of the surrounding skin.

Anti-inflammatory or blood-thinning medicines are sometimes used to treat phlebitis. Compression stockings may be recommended for some people.

Things you can do to ease the symptoms of phlebitis include continuing to use the affected leg or arm and raising it the while resting.

The cause of phlebitis is not always known. It’s often linked to conditions like varicose veins and thrombophilia.

Phlebitis is inflammation of a vein near the surface of the skin. It’s not usually serious and often gets better on its own.

Page last reviewed: 20/12/2022
Next review due: 20/12/2025