DVT Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot that occurs in the deep veins. This condition generally occurs in the large veins found in the thighs and calves.
Venous thrombosis can also occur in other veins, such as the arms, and can spread to the lungs. DVT that attacks the lungs can block half or all of the pulmonary artery, causing dangerous complications called pulmonary embolism ( PE) and venous thromboembolism (VTE).
Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) can attack the leg and arm areas. Sufferers will feel pain, swelling, and pain in the area. Reddish skin color and warmth can be felt, such as in the area behind the knee accompanied by pain that gets worse when bending the leg near the knee. Symptoms that appear can also be seen from the blood vessels around the infected area appearing larger than usual.
Causes of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Anything that prevents blood from flowing or clotting normally can cause blood clots. However, arguably the most common causes of DVT are damage to the veins from surgery or trauma and inflammation from infection or injury.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Risk Factors
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History of Blood Clotting Disorders
People who have a family history of blood clotting disorders are more likely to develop this condition. This genetic condition usually becomes a problem when combined with one or more other risk factors.
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Prolonged Sleep
This includes being in the hospital for a long time or being paralyzed. When the legs are immobile for a long time, the calf muscles do not contract which can increase the risk of blood clots.
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Injury or Recent Surgery
Blood vessel injury or recent surgery can increase the risk of blood clots.
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Pregnancy
Pregnancy can increase pressure in the veins in the pelvis and legs. Women with genetic blood clotting disorders are at risk for this condition. The risk of blood clots from pregnancy can continue for up to six weeks after delivery.
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Birth Control Pills or Hormone Therapy
Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and hormone replacement therapy can increase the blood’s ability to clot.
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Overweight or Obesity
Obesity can increase pressure in the blood vessels in the pelvis and legs.
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Smoke
Smoking can affect blood clotting and circulation, which can increase the risk of blood clots.
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Cancer
Some forms of cancer can increase the amount of substances in the blood that cause blood to clot. Some forms of cancer treatment also increase the risk of blood clots.
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Heart failure
People with heart failure are at greater risk for DVT and pulmonary embolism because heart failure causes people to have limited lung and liver function.
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Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease can increase the risk of DVT.
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Age
Being over 60 years of age increases the risk of DVT, although it can occur at any age.
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Sitting for Long Periods
Blood clots can form in the calf of the leg when the calf muscles are not moved for a long time.
Diagnosis of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
In addition to a physical examination and questions about symptoms, tests that are usually performed to confirm a diagnosis of Deep Vein Thrombosis are:
- Sonogram (USG) of the swollen leg or other area to measure blood flow.
- A blood test (D-Dimeer) measures a substance in the blood that is released when a blood clot dissolves. If the test shows high levels of this substance, the patient may have a blood clot.
Complications of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Complications of DVT can include:
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Pulmonary Embolism
Pulmonary embolism is a potentially life-threatening complication associated with DVT. It occurs when a blood vessel in the lungs becomes blocked by a blood clot (thrombus) that has traveled to the lungs from another part of the body, usually the legs.
It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you have signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism such as sudden onset of shortness of breath, chest pain when inhaling or coughing, rapid breathing, rapid pulse, feeling faint or faint, and coughing up blood.
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Post-phlebitic Syndrome
Damage to blood vessels from blood clots reduces blood flow in the affected area, causing leg pain and swelling, skin discoloration and skin sores.
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Treatment Complications
Complications can occur from blood thinners used to treat DVT. Bleeding (hemorrhage) is a worrying side effect of blood thinners. It is important to have regular blood tests while taking these medications.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Treatment
Treatment for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) can vary depending on the health condition of the sufferer. Some types of treatment or care provided are:
- Anticoagulant-type drugs (prevent blood clotting).
- Medical stockings or compression stockings to prevent blood clots.
- Physical exercise (walking).
- Rest with your legs elevated, where your feet are placed higher than your waist to restore blood flow to your calves.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Prevention
Steps to prevent DVT can be done by:
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Avoid Sitting Still
If you have just had surgery, do not sit still or lie down all the time. Try to move around as soon as possible. If you are sitting, do not cross your legs, which can block blood flow.
If traveling long distances by car, stop every hour or so and then go for a walk. If you are sitting on a plane, don’t forget to stand up and walk around occasionally. Work your lower legs by raising and lowering your heels while keeping your toes on the floor, then lifting your toes with your heels on the floor.
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Do not smoke
Smoking can increase the risk of developing DVT.
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Exercise and Weight Management
Obesity is a risk factor for DVT. Regular exercise lowers the risk of blood clots, which is especially important for people who sit a lot or travel a lot.
When to See a Doctor?
Contact a doctor immediately if you experience the symptoms described above. Proper treatment can minimize the effects, so that treatment can be done more quickly.
