The Vein Doctor

Phlebitis is a term that is used by doctors and the public and there are many important facts that you and your doctor should know. Here are 7 important facts that even many doctors get wrong.

1. Phlebitis is not caused by an infection and antibiotics are not necessary. Recently reviews in the medical literature suggest that antibiotic are frequently prescribed for phlebitis. Not only is this ineffective, but costs our healthcare system and may complications such as diarrhoea and my contribute to antibiotic resistance.
2. Phlebitis most commonly affects the leg veins and it causes swelling, tenderness and redness along the … Continue reading »
   

Healthy functioning valves are vital to the proper flow of blood in the veins. But what exactly are valves, what do they do and what do they look like?

If you have any vein condition such as varicose veins, spider veins, phlebitis, varicose eczema or leg ulcers, you need to know the answers and I will give you all the information you need.

Venous valves are delicate folds in the lining of the vein that direct blood in the correct direction. In the legs, this means that they open and close to keep blood flowing from the feet, up the … Continue reading »

As a medical doctor, I am often asked about general health issues. Subjects such as diet, heart disease, exercise and life style. In fact, these health issues are a particular interest of mine because healthy legs are a reflection of good health generally, so much so in fact that I would go as far as to say, that if you don’t have healthy legs you can’ t be truly healthy.

Let me explain why. In my experience, there are 3 main threats to leg health: these are peripheral arterial disease shortened to PAD, chronic venous disease, about which I spend most … Continue reading »

If you are concerned that you might have phlebitis, this article will tell you what you need to look for, what features are strongly suggestive of phlebitis and what you should do.
If you are reading this,  I think it is probably safe to assume that you already know that phlebitis is serious. If you don’t well, here are the facts.

• Phlebitis is an inflammatory condition of the vein and it is always associated clot formation in the vein, which can spread and propagate into the deep veins. These clots can break loose and travel around to the lungs.
• Some studies suggest that up to … Continue reading »