Deep Vein
Thrombosis
What is Vein Thrombosis?
Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Unfortunately, DVT often goes unnoticed. About half of
people with DVT have no warning signs. Symptoms may include:
Redness
Swelling
Tenderness or pain
These happen in the area of the blood clot, which is
usually in the lower leg.
Dangers of DVT:
Pulmonary Embolism
If part of the clot breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream, the results can be life-threatening. A clot that blocks the blood supply to the lungs is called a pulmonary embolism. Symptoms include trouble breathing, low blood pressure, fainting, faster heart rate, chest pain, and coughing up blood. If you have any of these symptoms, call 911 and seek immediate emergency care.
What Causes DVT?
Anything that damages the inner lining of a vein may
cause DVT, including surgery, injury, or an immune system response. Blood that
is thick or flows too slowly is more likely to form a clot, especially in a
vein that is already damaged. Other things that raise the risk for blood
clotting include genetic disorders, hormone changes, and sitting for long
periods of time (such as when flying).
DVT and Pregnancy
Women have a greater risk of developing DVT during
pregnancy and the four to six weeks after giving birth. This is due to higher
levels of estrogen, which may make blood easier to clot. The pressure of an
expanding uterus can also slow blood flow of the veins as well. Certain blood
disorders can boost the risk even more.
DVT and Hormonal
Birth Control
Like pregnancy, hormonal birth control and postmenopausal
hormone therapy change blood chemistry and may increase risk of DVT, even in
women who don't have blood disorders.
DVT and Travel
Traveling to new and faraway places can be exciting.
Squishing into a coach seat for a long international flight is not. Studies
show long-distance travel lasting more than four hours doubles the risk of
developing DVT. This includes travel by air, bus, train, or car. Not moving
around in these cramped conditions can cause sluggish blood flow.
Diagnosing DVT
An ultrasound is most often used to diagnose DVT. It uses
sound waves to create a picture of blood flow in the affected area and can
reveal a clot. Before recommending an ultrasound, your health care provider
will examine you and check for signs of DVT. Other tests, including a blood
test called a D-Dimer, may also be useful in diagnosing DVT. You may be asked
about your medical history, medications you are taking, family history, and
about any other factors that could raise your risk of DVT.
Treating DVT:
Anticoagulants
Anticoagulants, which make the blood thinner, are the
most common DVT treatment. They are taken as a pill or by injection. They can’t
break up an existing clot, but they prevent new blood clots from forming,
giving the body time to dissolve the clot on its own.
Treating DVT: Vena Cava Filter
If you can't take anticoagulants or they are not working,
your doctor may recommend inserting a filter into a large vein called the vena
cava. This filter catches breakaway clots and prevents them from traveling to
the lungs. The filter won't stop new clots from forming or cure DVT itself, but
it can help prevent a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
Long-Term Complications of DVT
Once a blood clot is gone, DVT sometimes leaves behind an
unpleasant calling card. You may have long-term swelling, changes in skin
color, and pain where the clot was. These symptoms, known as post-thrombotic
syndrome, sometimes show up even a year after the clot.
Preventing DVT: Exercise
Being active increases blood flow keeping from pooling
and clotting. Exercising the lower leg muscles in particular can help prevent
DVT. When you're not active -- at your desk, for example -- take breaks to
stretch your legs. Get up and walk around if you can. Frequent exercise also
reduces the risk of obesity, which contributes to DVT risk.
Preventing DVT: Travel Tips
When traveling for more than four hours, avoid tight
clothing and drink plenty of water. Get up and walk around at least every two
to three hours. If you have to stay in your seat, find ways to keep legs
active. Try clenching and releasing your leg muscles or lifting and lowering
your heels with your toes on the floor and be sure to do plenty of sightseeing
by foot once you arrive.
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