Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a major health complication. DVT refers to a blood clot that is embedded in one of the major veins in the legs or pelvis. The blood clot blocks blood circulation in a major vein, which circulates blood between the lower body and the heart. Deep Vein Thrombosis can cause pain, swelling, and in extremely severe cases can result in death. (Blood clots in superficial varicose veins of the legs are known as phlebitis and are much less serious.)
In severe cases of DVT, the blood clot can break free and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs. In this life threatening condition the clot can block blood flow through the pulmonary arteries. This condition can lead to severe difficulty in breathing and depending on the severity of blockage, possibly death.
In the United States, approximately 2 million people a year develop Deep Vein Thrombosis. According to statistics at least 200,000 patients die each year from blood clots in their lungs.
Who is at Risk for DVT?
Every year DVT occurs in about 1-3 people in 1,000 out of the general population. The risk of DVT rises with age. The risk increases from approximately 1 in 3,000 for those under 40, to 1 in a few hundred for those over 80.
The risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis is greater in people:
Over 40 years of age
With a history of blood clots, or a family history of blood clots
Suffering from or undergoing treatment for cancer
With certain blood diseases
During prolonged sitting, such as during travel
During prolonged bed rest or immobility
Who are obese
Who have suffered recent trauma to the lower body
Who have had a heart attack or heart failure
Who have recently given birth
At very high altitude (greater than 14,000 feet)
Who use or have used hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills
With malignant Tumors (cancer)
**People who have had one episode of DVT are more likely than the average person to have a second episode.
Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Approximately 30-50% of those with DVT have no symptoms. Symptoms can occur in the affected leg. The clot obstructs the blood flow and causes inflammation. Symptoms can include the following:
Swelling
Gradual onset of pain
Redness
Warm to the touch
Worsening leg pain when bending the foot
Leg cramps, especially at night
Bluish or whitish discoloration of the skin
When to Seek Medical Care for DVT
Call your health care provider immediately if you suspect a blood clot. Your health care provider may tell you to visit the hospital emergency room immediately. You should also call your health care provider if you are experiencing leg pain, swelling, and if you or someone you know has a history of Deep Vein Thrombosis and begins experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, fainting, or is exhibiting any other concerning symptoms.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosis
Make sure to provide your health care professional with a detailed description of your symptoms of DVT. Your health care provider may suspect that you may have a blood clot. No blood test is available to diagnosis DVT, so your health care provider will utilize a variety of imaging techniques to confirm the diagnosis.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Treatment
Blood-thinning medication known as anticoagulants are used to treat DVT. Anticoagulants stabilize the clot and make it adhere to the vessel wall, which prevents the clot from traveling through the blood stream to the lungs. Anticoagulants do not make the clot go away;, however, they will prevent further clotting and worsening of the condition. The body will usually break up the clot on its own. This gradual process can take several days or weeks.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Prevention
Reversing the risk factors associated with DVT is key.
If you are obese, try to lose weight.
Keep legs elevated while sitting down or in bed.
Avoid periods of prolonged immobility while traveling.
Avoid high dose estrogen pills, unless deemed necessary by your health care provider.
Ask your doctor about special compression devices that can be placed on your legs.
You may also be advised to wear special elastic graduated support stockings or support socks that can help prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis.
Health Resources Disclaimer
This is only general information and is not meant for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Always consult your physician or other health care provider about all health concerns, conditions, and recommended treatments.
