2024-11-08 13:20:00
Thanks to Professor Joseph EMMERICH, cardiologist and vascular doctor at Saint-Joseph hospital in Paris.
With 70,000 cases per year in France (according to the figures of the French Federation of Cardiology), the venous thrombosis – or phlebitis – is a common condition; and it is estimated that 2% of the population will have a venous thromboembolism during their lifetime…
Good news: the causes of phlebitis are well known! They are divided into 2 categories: acquired causes and constitutional causes.
Among the acquired causes : surgery or an accident involving bed rest, wearing a cast, a long journey without moving, age, obesity, smoking, pregnancy, dehydration or even taking certain medications, etc.
Among the constitutional causes : “certain diseases, such as cancer or heart failure, also prevent the return of venous blood to the heart, favoring the occurrence of phlebitis. Genetic causes are most often linked to hereditary abnormalities of the coagulation factors which promote thrombus formationadds Professor Joseph Emmerich.
In summary, phlebitis therefore results from the combination of risk factors and situations favoring the occurrence of venous thrombosis. And it is by working on these different causes that we will be able to avoid venous thrombosis. But to prevent intelligently, it is essential to clearly identify the problem: prevention essentially depends on the type of phlebitis (namely superficial phlebitis or deep phlebitis).
If superficial phlebitis (localized at the level of the vein on the surface of the skin) is generally less serious than deep phlebitis, it is also the easiest to prevent. Indeed, the adoption of a healthy lifestyle and the fight against a sedentary lifestyle are the keys to prevention of superficial phlebitis. Good reflexes to adopt on a daily basis:
Monitor your weight; Practicing a physical activity that facilitates venous return: swimming, walking, running, dancing or cycling; Walk every day; Take the stairs instead of the elevator; Avoid crossing your legs when sitting as this can compress a vascular area in the leg and disrupt blood circulation. Get up from your chair several times an hour when you have an office job; Raise the legs of your bed to sleep; Avoid heat: hot bath, exposure to the sun, hair removal with hot wax or even sauna and hammam. Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight and wearing shoes that compress the calf; Do not wear socks that compress the calf; In the event of a long plane or car trip, wear support (or compression) stockings, move your legs frequently and drink regularly.
Prevention of deep phlebitis
More serious, deep phlebitis requires emergency treatment because when the clot obstructs a deep vein there is a significant risk of pulmonary embolism! Once again when it comes to health: prevention is better than cure for deep vein thrombosis ! Prevention of deep phlebitis is implemented by the doctor in subjects at risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. This preventive treatment generally involves:
wearing compression stockings (or support) in the event of prolonged bed rest due to surgery or wearing a cast. low-dose anticoagulant treatment as a preventative measure, in addition.
Walking, when possible, represents an excellent means of prevention and helps reduce the risk of phlebitis. And is beneficial for health more generally.
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**Interview with Professor Joseph Emmerich on Venous Thromboembolism and Phlebitis Prevention**
**Interviewer:** Good afternoon, Professor Emmerich, and thank you for joining us today. With the rising awareness around venous thromboembolism and its implications, can you start by explaining what venous thrombosis, commonly known as phlebitis, is?
**Professor Emmerich:** Good afternoon! Venous thrombosis, or phlebitis, occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein, often in the legs. This condition can lead to significant complications, including chronic venous insufficiency if not addressed properly. It’s a common issue, with approximately 70,000 cases reported annually in France alone.
**Interviewer:** That’s quite a significant number. What causes phlebitis, and can you outline the risk factors involved?
**Professor Emmerich:** Certainly. The causes of phlebitis can be categorized into acquired and constitutional factors. Acquired causes include factors like prolonged bed rest due to surgery or injuries, long journeys, obesity, smoking, and pregnancy. Constitutional causes are linked to underlying health issues such as cancer and heart failure, or genetic conditions affecting blood coagulation.
**Interviewer:** Interesting. You mentioned two types of phlebitis: superficial and deep. How do they differ in terms of seriousness and prevention?
**Professor Emmerich:** Precisely. Superficial phlebitis is localized and often less serious. Deep phlebitis, however, is more concerning because it can lead to serious complications like pulmonary embolism. Prevention strategies differ; for superficial phlebitis, maintaining an active lifestyle and managing weight are key. Regular physical activity such as walking, swimming, or even taking the stairs instead of the elevator can greatly reduce risk.
**Interviewer:** What advice would you give to our viewers who may be concerned about their risk of developing phlebitis?
**Professor Emmerich:** Firstly, it’s vital to recognize individual risk factors, whether they are lifestyle-related or due to health conditions. Regular physical activity and avoiding prolonged periods of inactivity are essential preventive measures. For those with higher risks, regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are recommended to monitor and manage any underlying conditions effectively.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Professor Emmerich, for these valuable insights. It’s clear that awareness and proactive measures can make significant differences in preventing venous thromboembolism.
**Professor Emmerich:** Thank you for having me, and I hope this information encourages everyone to take their vascular health seriously.