Who does it affect?

People who live sedentary lifestyle and do not get any exercise are more prone to thrombophlebitis as are those with obesity or who smoke tobacco. Certain medical conditions, such as cancer or blood disorders that increase the clotting potential of the blood can also increase the risk of thrombosis in veins.

It is also more common in people with varicose veins, or those taking hormone replacement tablets or the contraceptive pill and during pregnancy. Injuries to the limbs may also precipitate phlebitis and subsequent thrombosis.

Thrombophlebitis tends to be slightly more common in females and can occur in any age group from young adults to the elderly.