Often shortened to DVT, deep vein thrombosis is a condition caused by the formation of a blood clot in at least one deep vein in the body. This is typically seen in the legs. DVT can result in swelling or pain in the legs. Despite this, it also occurs with no symptoms. It’s highly recommended to get in touch with a doctor if you suspect you have the condition.
Causes
DVT might be caused by medical conditions that affect the clotting of blood such as the following:
- Genetic blood clot disorders
- Long bed rest for medical treatment
- Leg vein injuries
- Paralysis
- Obesity
- Oral contraceptive or hormone replacement therapy
- Cancer
- Pregnancy
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Congestive heart failure
These conditions increase the risk of DVT. It affects people of all ages, but the risk rises for those above the age of 60.
Treatment
Here are the common treatment options for DVT:
- Anticoagulants
- Filters
- Surgery
- Thrombolytics
- Complications
In general, the most worrisome condition caused by DVT is pulmonary embolism. It happens when a blood clot formed in a deep vein of the body breaks loose and moves to the lungs. The following are signs of this potentially fatal complication:
- Dizziness or loss of consciousness
- Rapid pulse
- Chest discomfort or pain that feels worse upon coughing or taking a deep breath
- Sudden shortness of breath for seemingly no reason
- Coughing up blood
There is another complication called post-thrombotic syndrome. This is the result when the veins are damaged by the reduction of blood flow. Here are the symptoms to watch out for:
- Skin discoloration
- Pain or swelling in the legs
- Skin sores
The last complication is pulmonary hypertension or increased blood pressure in the pulmonary artery. It is rare and occurs when the blood clots do not dissolve and keep obstructing the arteries of the lungs.