What are the symptoms

Phlebitis is an infection in a vein.

Hi ladybrannon,

thank you so much for your reply regarding enviornmental issues and lupus.

I came across question on phlebitis. I do not know much about lupus as I am new lupus patient and learning but can give some input on phlebitis. I am a vascular technologist and understand vascular disease. I do ultrasound and see phlebitis on a daily basis. Phlebitis is an infection of the vein. Most symptoms include pain, swelling in the area of the inflammation, redness, and temperature change (warm to the touch). If you feel in the area of the inflammation you usually can feel a cord-like structure under the skin which is the vein. Ultrasound can detect phlebitis very easily and is quite accurate. Most of the time treatment includes heat and elevation. May be different for lupus patients, I am not sure. Phlebitis involves the superficial venous system and dvt involves the deeper venous system which is more dangerous. Do not want to let phlebitis go depending upon location can move into the deep venous system if left untreated.

It is important I understand from my physician (lupus specialist) that we must be concerned about deep venous thrombosis or dvt which is commonly known as a blood clot due to medication sometimes and also due to the lupus itself. Where phlebitis is involving the superficial venous system, dvt involves the deep venous system and if left undected and untreated can progress and result in a pe or blood clot to the lung. With a dvt symptoms include swelling and pain and most generally involves a much larger area like the calf of the leg.

I had a dvt from an leg injury and was treated with coumadin for a year. I was told to wear support hose. I have worn support hose ever since even though they tend to be ugly and uncomfortable. They have improved over the years. I worry about dvt because once you have one you become susceptible for repeat problems.

For anyone with symptoms I would see physician away. Don't want to let go too long and if this is cause won't go away without treatment.

Sincerely, le from sd

Hi ladybrannon,

i actually had an infection in the vien in the back of my hand from an i.V. Site. My vien ended up breaking. It was very painful but heat and antibiotics (just for precaution) worked to cure it. I had a bad bruise for a few weeks but it got better fairly quick. I didn't know that the condition had a technical name. Hope this helps.

keep smiling,
jenn

Thank you everyone!

After my gp did not bother to call me back, I went to the er this morning. Engelbrecht, you are correct. It is a superficial thrombophlebitis. My arm is huge, reddish and painful.

They told me to use nsaids and warm compresses. The only thing that bothers me is this...I am on steroids (an anti-inflammatory). Why is that not working?

I am going to see my lupus doctor tomorrow. If she agrees, I will feel a lot better about this...

Thanks again...This was most helpful!
Ladybrannon

I saw my lupus doctor today after visiting the er. The only thing she changed...Said do not take nsaids because of the gastro problems I am having...

She also said that I would not see an improvement in 2 days (which the er paper said that I would)...As I heard from some other people, Dr. D said that it will be more like 6-8 weeks.

Thanks again to everyone!
Ladybrannon