3 Home Remedies For Phlebitis

Phlebitis is a superficial inflammation of the veins that is caused by impaired blood circulation. You will learn more about this disease in today’s article and find 3 simple home remedies that can be very helpful. 

A  phlebitis,  or inflammation of the superficial veins, can occur at any age. It is worrying that this disease is often asymptomatic in the beginning and is only recognized when it is already too late.

It is a circulatory disorder that causes inflammation of the vein wall. The exact name is thrombophlebitis superficialis. As a result, a blood clot can form, but this does not have to be the case.

When the deeper veins become inflamed and thrombosis occurs, this is known as phlebothrombosis. A superficial inflammation of the varicose veins is called varicophlebitis. Usually arms, legs and shoulders are affected. 

Types of phlebitis

• Superficial phlebitis:  In this case, the superficial veins are affected. Small blood clots can form, but there is usually no health risk.
• Deep-seated phlebitis: This affects deeper veins, often causing blood clots to form; one also speaks of deep vein thrombosis, which can lead to serious complications. If a blood clot separates and is washed to the heart and then into the lungs, a life-threatening pulmonary embolism can develop and requires immediate treatment.

Causes of Phlebitis

Possible causes of phlebitis are:

• pregnancy
• cancer
• Venous insufficiency
• Circulatory disorders
• Tobacco use
• Obesity
• Bad posture
• Trauma
• Burns
• Bacterial infections

Symptoms

Inflammation of the veins is not always recognized immediately; many sufferers only find out by chance that they are suffering from it.

Possible symptoms are:

• Continuous pain in the calves,
• excessive sensitivity,
• Feeling of warmth in the affected area,
• accelerated heart rhythm or
• Fever.

Then we name specific symptoms that can occur depending on the type of inflammation.

Symptoms of superficial phlebitis

• fever
• Pain when pressure is applied to the affected area
• Emergence of the vessels
• swelling
• Redness

Symptoms of deep phlebitis

• fever
• Racing heart
• intense pain in the legs, arms, or shoulders, depending on where the inflammation occurs
• yellowish skin
• swelling
• bluish-red discoloration of the skin

treatment

Once the diagnosis is established, treatment can begin. You should follow your doctor’s instructions carefully  so that the inflammation can be relieved in the shortest possible time. 

• Pain relievers are usually prescribed.
• In addition  , a refreshing ointment is applied to the affected veins,  after which a pressure bandage is applied.

• Anti-inflammatory agents are also recommended.
• Antibiotics are only prescribed if there is infectious phlebitis. 

Home remedies for phlebitis

1. blueberries

This small fruit is rich in nutrients, such as flavonoids,  that can be used to widen veins and improve blood flow. They also have anti-inflammatory effects, relieving pain, swelling, and redness.

2. Cold and heat treatments

The alternating use of hot and cold water helps reduce inflammation, relaxes the muscles and soothes pain.

It’s very easy:

• Put on a hot envelope for 10 minutes,
• immediately afterwards an compress with cold water.
• Do this treatment for about half an hour.
• If the legs are affected, it is best to raise them up to improve the effect.

3. Arnica for phlebitis

Arnica is one of the best herbal pain relievers. This can also promote blood circulation. In addition, this medicinal plant is very effective in treating bruises. You can use arnica ointment or arnica oil, or you can consume tea in small amounts.

prevention

You have to improve the blood circulation and therefore move more often! The daily routine and hectic pace often doesn’t leave much time for exercise, but you should definitely change various lifestyle habits.

Here are a few tips:

• Your diet should contain important vital substances and sufficient fiber. Drink enough water and reduce your salt intake to improve blood flow.
• Sedentary lifestyle is your worst enemy. Unless you plan to work out in the gym or at home, the best practice is to run, move your legs, and lie up at night to prevent blood clots from forming.
• Maintain a healthy weight!
• Avoid warm temperatures as much as possible.

recommendations

• Move your arms and legs at least every two hours.
• At the end of the day, it’s best to support your feet on the wall for a while to stimulate blood flow.
• Take off your shoes every now and then and walk barefoot to strengthen muscles and bones.
• Exercise at least three times a week.

• Avoid tobacco, as it can cause circulatory problems.
• Look for symptoms,  such as sudden swelling or pain for no reason. In this case you should consult a doctor!
• Use intensive sun protection and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. 
• Try to sleep with your legs up high.

Don’t forget that we can only give you general information here. Should problems actually arise, you have to seek medical examination and advice.