Jan Jakub Kotik Shopping

Phlebitis

Thursday, September 4th, 2008 | Shopping | No Comments

Description

Phlebitis is the inflammation of the wall of a vein, caused by the infection of tissues next to the vein or by trauma to the area. The condition also can follow a surgical procedure or result from prolonged bed rest (which contributes to poor blood circulation). Other contributing factors may include varicose veins, obesity, certain medications (including birth control pills), heredity, and arteriosclerosis. If the condition persists, it can cause a further irritation of the vein, or the vein can accumulate deposits from the blood, which may lead to the development of blood clots attached to the vein wall (a condition known as thrombophlebitis).

Phlebitis usually occurs in the superficial veins of the leg where it is generally not considered a serious problem. When it occurs in deeper blood vessels, there is a greater risk of blood clots breaking free, circulating in the bloodstream, and causing an obstruction in the brain, lungs, or heart.

Signs and Symptoms

• Severe throbbing pain, redness, heat, and swelling of the leg or a vein in the leg
• Severe pain when flexing the foot or toes
• Any tender, cord-like mass under the skin of the leg

Conventional Medical Treatment

When phlebitis occurs in a superficial vein, you can generally relieve the pain and swelling by taking analgesics, applying wet compresses, using elastic Support hose, elevating your leg, and resting. Elevate your leg as much as possible to assist in blood circulation and sleep with your feet elevated on pillows. Wearing full-length support pantyhose or physician-prescribed support hose can also improve circulation. Avoid wearing knee-length hose, which can interfere with circulation. Once the pain is relieved, you may begin a regimen of mild exercise to improve blood circulation. Do not begin any exercise program, however, without consulting with your physician.

In the case of severe phlebitis, or thrombophlebitis, you should be under the care of a physician. Treatment may include anticoagulants to prevent the formation of blood clots or, in the most severe cases, surgical removal of the clot.

Phlebitis sufferers should avoid smoking, since it promotes blood clotting.

Complementary and Alternative Treatments

Nutrition and Supplementation

Consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, raw nuts and seeds, soybean products, and whole grains. Get regular moderate exercise to improve circulation.

The following daily supplements help keep the veins and blood in healthy condition:

• acetyl-L-carnitine (500 mg)-protects blood vessels from fat accumulation
• coenzyme (100 to 200 mg)-improves circulation
• flaxseed oil (2 tsp)-keeps veins soft
• garlic (as directed on label)-improves circulation; thins the blood
• L-histidine (500 mg)-dilates the blood vessels
• grape seed extract (as directed on label)-reduces the risk of blood vessel disease
• vitamin C (4000 to 8000 mg)-aids circulation

(Consult your health care provider regarding the duration of treatment.)

Hydrotherapy

Try contrast therapy (alternating hot and cold) to increase circulation. Use a moist, hot compress followed by a cold compress. Repeat 3 times.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture Acupuncture helps improve the flow of blood to and away from the affected area. Practitioners typically focus on ear points related to the kidney, heart, liver, and adrenal gland.

Acupressure As with acupuncture, this modality can be used to stimulate circulation, thereby lessening the swelling and discomfort in veins associated with phlebitis. Bioflavonoids are often given with herbal medicines.

Tags: , arteriosclerosis, bed rest, birth control pills, bloodstream, conventional medical treatment, elastic support, exercise program, heredity, knee length, mild exercise, phlebitis, poor blood circulation, severe pain, superficial vein, superficial veins, support hose, support pantyhose, swelling of the leg, varicose veins, wet compresses