Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. Blood clots in the legs can form if someone does not move for long periods — like during traveling or bed rest. While it often develops silently, DVT can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Knowing the signs and risks can help you take steps to protect your health.
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What causes DVT?
DVT occurs when blood flow slows down or becomes blocked, leading to the formation of a clot.
What causes blood clots to form?
In most cases, it’s anything that interferes with normal blood flow—like damage to a vein during surgery or inflammation from an infection or injury. These disruptions make it easier for clots to develop.
The following are risk factors that can make an individual more susceptible to developing DVT:
- Lack of movement: When someone does not move their legs for a long time, the calf muscles cannot contract, restricting blood flow.
- Age: Being older can increase the risk of DVT. However, DVT can happen at any age.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant ladies can develop DVT due to the increased pressure in the veins in their pelvis and legs. Blood clots can form during pregnancy and up to six weeks after the baby is born.
- Heart failure: If the heart and lungs are not working well — like with heart failure — DVT or a pulmonary embolism is possible.
- Obesity: Being overweight can put more pressure on the veins in the legs and pelvis.
- Medications: Taking certain medications — specifically, birth control or hormone replacement therapy — can increase the risk of blood clotting in the veins.
- Smoking: Consistent smoking can affect the blood flow in an individual, causing blood clots.
- Family history: If someone in your family has experienced DVT or any of the conditions above, you may be at risk.
- Genetics: Certain DNA changes or inherited disorders can cause the blood to clot easily or not at all.
Signs & Symptoms of DVT
While DVT can happen without noticeable symptoms, some common DVT symptoms can include:
- Swelling in the legs
- Leg pain, soreness or cramping in the calf
- Skin color changes in the legs
- Warm sensation in the affected leg
It’s important to monitor symptoms closely—especially if you experience any signs of a pulmonary embolism, a serious complication of DVT that requires immediate medical attention.
Warning signs of a pulmonary embolism may include:
- Sudden chest pain or discomfort, especially when breathing deeply or coughing
- Shortness of breath that comes on quickly
- Rapid heart rate
- Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or faint
- Coughing up blood
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor or seek emergency care right away.
Treatment options for DVT
The main goals in treating DVT are to prevent the clot from growing, keep it from traveling to the lungs, reduce the risk of forming additional clots, and minimize other complications.
In most cases, treatment options are nonsurgical. This typically involves:
- Anticoagulants: Medications to thin the blood and prevent further clotting
- Compression Stockings: To improve blood flow in the legs
- Serial Ultrasounds: To monitor the clot over time
- Thrombolytics: Medications that can help dissolve existing clots
In more serious cases, a vein specialist may recommend a surgical option, such as placing a vena cava filter to help prevent clots from reaching the lungs.
Frequently Asked Questions
DVT can develop when blood flow slows or becomes blocked, often due to surgery, injury, prolonged immobility, or certain medical conditions.
Common symptoms include leg swelling, pain or cramping, skin discoloration, and warmth in the affected area.
If a clot breaks loose, it can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism, which is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical intervention.