What causes superficial thrombophlebitis?
Many cases occur for no apparent reason. A slight injury to the vein may trigger the inflammation in some cases. Risk factors There are a number of ‘risk factors’ that make it more likely for inflammation or a blood clot to develop in a vein, which may lead to superficial thrombophlebitis. • Varicose veins – Many cases occur in people who have varicose veins of the legs. Varicose veins are prone to minor injuries which can lead to inflammation. • Intravenous injection or cannulation – Sometimes it occurs after having intravenous injections (injections into the veins) or intravenous infusions (‘drips’) in hospital. These are commonly given in hand or arm veins. Such procedures can injure the vein and may trigger inflammation. Damage to the veins in this way is also common in people who inject ‘street drugs’. • Previous problems with veins – If someone has had previous superficial thrombophlebitis or a previous deep vein thrombosis, they are more likely to get superficial thrombophlebiti
