Acting at the first signs can effectively treat phlebitis. Discover the signs and symptoms to watch out for to react quickly.
The phlebitis is a disease to be taken very seriously. Complications can have serious consequences for your health. It is necessary that begin treatment at the first symptoms.
What is phlebitis? What are the first signs of this disease? What is the course of action? How to prevent risks? Discover the first signs of phlebitis.
What is phlebitis?
When a blood clot forms in a vein, it is called phlebitis or venous thrombosis. Most of the time, the clot lodges in the veins of the lower limbs.
There are 2 types of venous thrombosis:
- paraphlébite : the clot forms in a so-called superficial vein. It is benign and easily treated.
- deep phlebitis : the clot is in a deep vein (located in the muscle). The risk is that the clot extends to the thigh and causes a pulmonary embolism. This situation is worrying, it is necessary to be taken care of as soon as possible.
The factors provoking this disease are:
- the stagnation of blood in the veins : prolonged immobilization, operation, long journey, dehydration, illnesses;
- and blood clotting problem : pregnancy, childbirth, smoking, treatments, obesity, illnesses;
- the birth control pills : especially that of 3rd and 4th generation.
So be vigilant regarding possible symptoms to avoid serious cases.
What are the first signs of phlebitis?
To intervene in time, it is necessary to know the first signs of phlebitis. You may manifest several symptoms at once. So pay attention to the different possible signs. Consult quickly if in doubt.
Feeling of heavy legs
You may be sitting quietly, but your legs feel heavy. You even experience difficulty getting up because your legs feel numb.
Only the leg potentially affected by the thrombosis causes this sensation.
Calf pain
It is one of the most common symptoms. The pain comes spontaneously or when you touch your calf. This one looks tough.
Warmth to touch
The skin on your calf is hot. Inflammation causes this feeling of warmth. You are no doubt subject to paraphlebitis.
Temperature
Fever is a bodily alert. If you are prone to thrombosis, vOur temperature fluctuates around 38°. It’s a moderate fever but should alert you. This is even more true if you have symptoms in the calf area.
Edema
Impossible to close your shoes because your feet and/or your ankles have swollen. Your leg takes on the shape of a pole because your ankle is as big as your calf.
It can be the sign of venous insufficiency. If left untreated, it can lead to thrombosis.
Varices
Have you ever seen these small blue, purple or even red veins on your thighs and/or calves? These are varicose veins. Often without consequences, they are still to be monitored. If they multiply and/or grow, consult quickly.
What to do in case of signs?
Unfortunately, the signs don’t always show up. It is therefore difficult to manage the disease.
However, if one of the symptoms occurs suddenly and on one side only, it is better to consult. In addition, if you have several symptoms at the same time (at least 2), seek medical attention as well.
If the pain is severe, the varicose veins are very large and there is a fever, go directly to the emergency room.
How to prevent the risk of disease?
Some people are more at risk than others. In any case, it is better to adopt good habits. Otherwise, you risk increasing the risk of thrombosis.
Here are some tips to avoid venous return problems.
Practice regular physical activity
Sport promotes better blood circulation. You have better venous return. In addition, it limits the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Walking, running, swimming, etc. have many benefits. In addition to limiting the risk of thrombosis, you stabilize your weight. Obesity is an aggravating factor that has many other consequences on your health.
Change position regularly throughout the day
Whatever happens, standing, sitting or lying down for too long is not recommended. Do you work sitting down? Take breaks and walk.
Do you have a job that requires you to be on your feet constantly? Are you trampling? Sit down once in a while. You travel ? Include some stretching to avoid leg numbness.
Jets of cold water
Do not hesitate to apply a few jets of cold water to your lower limbs. That stimulates blood circulation. This is a more economical and healthier shower.
Wear compression stockings
After an operation, childbirth, during pregnancy, etc. compression stockings are prescribed for you. It is important to wear them. Their goal is to compress the lower limbs to improve blood circulation.
If you are a person at risk, do not hesitate to be prescribed. Staying in the same position for several hours prevents the blood from circulating properly. Stockings are therefore often recommended when traveling.
First signs of phlebitis: what to remember
Symptoms are not always apparent. However, if you show signs of phlebitis, do not hesitate to consult quickly. In some cases, go directly to the emergency room.
Treat venous thrombosis as soon as possible to avoid pulmonary embolism. A much more serious cardiovascular disease that might leave significant sequelae.
