Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), also referred to as ‘clots in the legs’, can be a very serious medical disorder especially if blood clots in the veins can break loose, travel through the bloodstream and lodge in the lungs – blocking blood flow. If diagnosed early DVT can be successfully treated.
What is deep vein thrombosis?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. Deep vein thrombosis can cause leg pain or swelling, but can also occur with no symptoms.
What are the symptoms of DVT?
Symptoms might vary from one individual to another. In some patients there might be no symptoms at all. If symptoms do occur they can include:
• pain, swelling and tenderness in one of your legs (usually your calf)
• a heavy ache in the affected area
• warm skin in the area of the clot
• red skin, particularly at the back of your leg below the knee
DVT usually (although not always) affects one leg. The pain may be worse when you bend your foot upward towards your knee.
If you develop signs or symptoms of deep vein thrombosis, contact your doctor.
What causes DVT?
Anyone can develop DVT, but it becomes more common over the age of 40. As well as age, there are also a number of other risk factors, including:
• having a history of DVT or pulmonary embolism
• having a family history of blood clots
• being inactive for long periods – such as after an operation or during a long journey
• blood vessel damage – a damaged blood vessel wall can result in the formation of a blood clot
• having certain conditions or treatments that cause your blood to clot more easily than normal – such as cancer (including chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment), heart and lung disease and thrombophilia
• being pregnant – your blood also clots more easily during pregnancy
• being overweight or obese
• Some forms of hormonal contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy
Complications of DVT
Some patients with DVT can develop a serious complication called pulmonary embolism. A pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening. It is important to watch for signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism and seek medical attention if it occurs. Signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include:
• Sudden shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort that worsens when you take a deep breath or when you cough
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy, or fainting
• Rapid pulse
• Coughing up blood
A common complication that can occur after deep vein thrombosis is known as postphlebitic syndrome, also called postthrombotic syndrome. Damage to your veins from the blood clot reduces blood flow in the affected areas, which can cause:
• Persistent swelling of your legs (edema)
• Leg pain
• Skin discolouration
• Skin sores
Can DVT be prevented?
In some patients DVT can be prevented. The following measures might help to prevent DVT:
• Avoid sitting still. If you have had surgery, or have been on bed rest for other reasons, try to get moving as soon as possible. If you are sitting for a while, do not cross your legs which can hamper blood flow. If you are traveling a long distance by car, stop every hour or so and walk around.
If you are on a plane, stand or walk occasionally. If you cannot do that, exercise your lower legs. Try raising and lowering your heels while keeping your toes on the floor, then raising your toes with your heels on the floor.
• Make lifestyle changes. Lose weight and quit smoking.
• Exercise. Regular exercise lowers your risk of blood clots, which is especially important for people who sit a lot or travel frequently.
Diagnosis
Your doctor would carry out a detailed history and clinical examination, and then arrange for various investigations to confirm the diagnosis of DVT.
Once a diagnosis is made treatment should be started immediately.
Treatment
In DVT, treatment is aimed at preventing the clot from getting bigger and preventing it from breaking loose and causing a pulmonary embolism. Then the goal becomes reducing your chances of deep vein thrombosis happening again.
Conclusion
Deep vein thrombosis is a serious medical disorder. Individuals are encouraged to take steps to prevent this condition. This condition can be successfully treated, but complications can occur that can be life-threatening. If you have signs and symptoms suggestive of DVT you should consult with your doctor.
Ask Your Dr is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge MB BS DGO MRCOG is an obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor with over thirty-five years in clinical practice. Dr Brett Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 497 5928).
