The term phlebitis refers to an inflammation of a vein, usually
in the leg, frequently accompanied by blood clots that adhere to
the wall of the vein. When the affected vein is close to the
surface, the condition is called superficial phlebitis. This
condition usually resolves on its own without further
complications. However, when phlebitis occurs in a deep vein, a
condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a clot could
dislodge from the vein and lodge in the lungs. This is a life-
threatening condition. Symptoms of superficial phlebitis include
pain, swelling, redness, and warmth around the affected vein.
The vein feels hard to the touch because of the clotted blood.
Deep vein thrombosis is harder to diagnose. It can occur without
any symptoms until the clot reaches the lungs. However, in about
half of the cases, there are warning symptoms including
swelling, pain, and warmth in the entire calf, ankle, foot, or
thigh (depending on where the involved vein is located).
Although these symptoms can also be cau