The diagnosis
In order to detect phlebitis in the arm, a visual diagnosis is often sufficient. The skin often hurts and tightens over the affected area. In addition, symptoms such as redness and swelling usually occur.
In addition, the veins can also be visualized with the help of an ultrasound to clearly identify the inflammation. Another method suitable for diagnosis is the so-called duplex sonography of the veins. This examination method is painless, non-invasive and without radiation exposure. It shows the blood flow within the veins and can, for example, show whether there is a thrombosis in a vessel.
The treatment
The treatment of arm vein inflammation differs depending on the underlying disease or trigger. If the cause is the creation of a vascular access, such as an indwelling venous cannula, it should be removed and, if possible, punctured at another site. The puncture for a blood sample should then also be performed at a different location if possible, since otherwise the irritation of the vein may increase.
The symptoms usually subside relatively quickly. The area can be cooled to help relieve the pain. If necessary, an anti-inflammatory ointment can also be applied.
Ointments with drugs from the group of so-called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for example with the active ingredient diclofenac, are particularly suitable as active ingredients. If there is a bacterial infection of the skin, it can be treated by administering antibiotics. If the phlebitis leads to the formation of a thrombus (blood clot), the treatment is much more extensive. Drugs are used to prevent blood clotting, such as heparin. In most cases, treatment is tied to a stay in hospital, as it includes further therapeutic measures.
The duration
Usually the phlebitis heals within a few days after the diagnosis. It is important to identify the cause early and to treat it. If a vascular access is responsible for the inflammation, the symptoms usually subside 1-2 days after the access is removed.
Supportive measures such as cooling the skin area or applying anti-inflammatory ointments can additionally shorten the duration of the inflammation. Bacterial infections of the veins can also be treated quickly and reliably with antibiotics and subside after a few days. No further complications or restrictions are to be expected after that.
If an arm vein thrombosis is present as a result of a phlebitis, the patient often has to undergo inpatient treatment. The duration of this treatment depends on the severity of the thrombosis and possible complications. If the treatment is carried out quickly and there are no other diseases, a rapid improvement of the symptoms can be observed.
