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Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. Blood clots can block blood flow and cause swelling, pain, and even death if the clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).

Symptoms

DVT can sometimes cause no symptoms at all, but when symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • Throbbing or cramping pain in one leg, usually in the calf or thigh
  • Swelling in one leg
  • Tenderness or redness of the skin over the affected area
  • A feeling of warmth in the affected leg

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away to get a diagnosis.

Causes

There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing DVT, including:

  • Injury to a vein
  • Surgery, especially surgery that involves the legs or abdomen
  • Long periods of inactivity, such as during a long flight or car ride
  • Certain medical conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, and obesity
  • Pregnancy and childbirth
  • Taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
  • Smoking

 

Diagnosis

There are a number of tests that can be used to diagnose DVT, including:

  • Ultrasound: This is the most common test used to diagnose DVT. It uses sound waves to create an image of the veins and can show whether there is a blood clot present.
  • D-dimer test: This is a blood test that measures the level of a substance in the blood that is produced when a clot breaks down. A high D-dimer level can suggest the presence of a clot, but it is not always reliable.
  • Venography: This is an X-ray that uses a contrast dye to show the veins. It is less commonly used than ultrasound, but it may be necessary if ultrasound is inconclusive.

 

Treatment

The main goal of treatment for DVT is to prevent the clot from growing or breaking loose and travelling to the lungs. Treatment options include:

  • Blood thinners: These medications help to prevent blood clots from forming and can also help to break down existing clots.
  • Compression stockings: These stockings apply pressure to the legs and help to improve blood flow.
  • Catheter-directed thrombolysis: In some cases, a catheter can be inserted into the vein to deliver clot-busting medication directly to the clot.
  • Thrombectomy: Devices can be used to remove the clot by aspiration (Penumbra) or breaking down the clot (Angiojet)
  • Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a large blood clot.

 (Click here to read more on Thrombolysis /thrombectomy for deep vein thrombosis (DVT)) 

 

Prevention

There are a number of things you can do to help prevent DVT, including:

  • Getting up and moving around regularly, especially during long periods of sitting
  • Wearing compression stockings
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Avoiding smoking
  • Talking to your doctor about your risk factors for DVT

If you are at high risk for DVT, your doctor may recommend taking blood thinners even if you don’t have any symptoms.