Treating And Preventing Phleboliths

Phleboliths are tiny pebbles that form in the veins and are most often found in the veins of the pelvis and start as small blood clots that calcify over time. They are ovate and only a few millimeters in diameter. Phleboliths are surprisingly common, especially in individuals who are middle-aged or older. They are found more often in women than in men. Phleboliths are usually asymptomatic and do not cause health problems in most individuals. When symptoms appear, they include constipation, pains in the stomach or the pelvic area, varicose veins, and swelling around the affected area. Phleboliths look white on X-rays and are often mistaken for kidney stones.