Emergency
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the leg. If left untreated, DVT can lead to serious complications as the blood clot can break loose and travel through the bloodstream, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE), such as pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening. Factors that can increase the risk of DVT include pregnancy, smoking, obesity, and certain medical conditions, such as cancer and heart failure.

Symptoms

  • Swelling in the affected leg, usually in the calf or thigh.
  • Pain or tenderness in the affected leg, which may feel like a cramp or soreness.
  • Warmth in the affected area.
  • Red or discoloured skin on the affected area.
  • Enlarged veins that are visible just below the surface of the skin.
  • Fatigue or heaviness in the affected leg

Causes

  • Prolonged immobility, such as long periods of sitting or bed rest.
  • Recent surgery, especially in the pelvis or lower extremities.
  • Injury to a deep vein, such as a fracture or severe muscle injury.
  • Family history of blood clots or clotting disorders.
  • Obesity.
  • Pregnancy or use of hormonal birth control.
  • Smoking.
  • Certain medical conditions, such as cancer, heart failure, and inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Advanced age.
  • Dehydration.
  • Genetic predisposition.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent DVT?

You can reduce your risk of developing DVT by staying physically active, avoiding prolonged periods of sitting or bed rest, maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking. If you are at high risk for DVT, your healthcare provider may recommend the use of anticoagulant medication or compression stockings.

What are the complications of DVT?

The most serious complication of DVT is a pulmonary embolism, which occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and blocks blood flow. Other complications may include post-thrombotic syndrome, which can cause chronic leg swelling and pain, and recurrent DVT.

What are the risk factors for DVT?

Risk factors for DVT include prolonged immobility, recent surgery, injury to a deep vein, family history of blood clots or clotting disorders, obesity, pregnancy or use of hormonal birth control, smoking, certain medical conditions, advanced age, dehydration, and genetic predisposition.