# Superficial phlebitis (superficial vein thrombosis)

> Formation of a blood clot inside a superficial vein, causing inflammation of the vein wall with pain, redness, local warmth, and a hardened area (a "cord") under the skin; when it occurs over a varicose vein it is called varicophlebitis.

**URL:** https://clinicadrmolina.es/en/superficial-phlebitis-causes-symptoms-varicophlebitis/

- **Cause:** Formation of a blood clot inside a superficial vein, with inflammation of its wall.
- **Risk factors:** Varicose veins or chronic venous disease; Slowed circulation due to prolonged immobility; Clotting disorders or diseases that favour clot formation; Venous catheters; Infection
- **Signs and symptoms:** Localised pain along the course of a vein; Redness of the skin; Local warmth; A hardened area that feels like a cord; Localised swelling
- **Possible complications:** In some cases it can be associated with deep vein thrombosis or, less frequently, with pulmonary embolism.
- **Possible treatment:** Depending on extent and location: conservative measures, anti-inflammatories, compression, or anticoagulation (low or full doses); in varicophlebitis, later treatment of the underlying varicose veins (e.g. radiofrequency or VenaSeal®) after a Doppler ultrasound assessment.
- **Typical diagnostic test:** Venous Duplex ultrasound (https://clinicadrmolina.es/en/venous-doppler-ultrasound-varicose-veins/)

## Frequently asked questions

### Is superficial phlebitis the same as deep vein thrombosis?

NO . Superficial phlebitis affects superficial veins, which are closer to the skin. Deep vein thrombosis affects deep veins, which carry most of the venous return from the leg. They are different problems, although in some cases they can coexist or be related.

### Can superficial phlebitis be dangerous?

In many cases it is a localized problem with a favorable course, but it should not be trivialized. Some superficial thromboses can extend or be associated with deep vein thrombosis. That is why it is important to assess their extent and location.

### How do I know if what I have is phlebitis?

Typical signs are pain, redness, warmth, and a vein that feels like a hard cord under the skin. Even so, the diagnosis should be confirmed by a professional, especially if the symptoms are intense, extensive, or appear in a leg with varicose veins. Self-diagnosis should never be attempted, because not all these symptoms always appear, nor do they always appear in a fixed combination.

### What is varicophlebitis?

It is phlebitis that appears inside a varicose vein. In other words, a clot forms in a varicose vein, causing inflammation, pain, hardening, and redness over that area.

### Should I rest completely?

This should not be decided without medical assessment. In many venous problems, avoiding prolonged immobility is recommended, but each case must be individualized. If deep thrombosis is suspected or other risk factors are present, it is necessary to follow the doctor’s instructions.

### Can it happen again?

Yes, especially if there are significant varicose veins or an untreated underlying venous disease. That is why, after the acute episode and after a Doppler ultrasound study by your vascular surgeon, more definitive treatment of the varicose veins may be recommended.


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**About the clinic: Dr. Jorge Molina – Clínica de varices en Valencia**

Hospital LA SALUD, Consultas Externas, Planta 2ª, Consultas 211-212. Calle Dr. Manuel Candela, 41, 46021 Valencia, España.

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