Thrombophlebitis refers to blood clots in the veins and can occur in any vein in the body. Deep Vein Thrombophlebitis is the most dangerous and potentially deadly formation of blood clots in the deep venous system.
A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potentially deadly condition caused by a blood clot that forms in a vein – most commonly the deep veins in the legs. This clot formation can happen if the vein is damaged or if the blood flow in the vein is slow or stops. DVT can cause pain and swelling in the leg, but many times it produces no symptoms. If the clot breaks off and travels in the bloodstream, it can cause damage to the lungs. When a blood clot travels to the lungs, it is called a pulmonary embolism (PE). A PE often causes shortness of breath and chest pain. If the lung damage is severe, it can kill people very quickly, even before treatment can be given. For this reason, every effort should be made to prevent a DVT before it happens.
People who have had a DVT in the past are at a much higher risk of getting another DVT. Additionally, some people inherit conditions from their parents that make them more prone to forming blood clots.
Other factors that increase the risk of getting a DVT include:
- Major surgery under general anesthesia, especially if it involves leg joints or hip
- Obesity
- Varicose veins
- Prolonged bed rest and immobility
- Heart or lung problems that require hospitalization
- Major injuries
- Cancer
- Leg paralysis
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Estrogen containing contraceptive pills, patch, or vaginal ring
- Estrogen replacement therapy
- Long-distance travel
Chronic Venous Insufficiency is when your leg veins cannot pump enough blood back to your heart, you have chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). CVI is also sometimes called chronic venous disease, or CVD.