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What is deep vein thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis or DVT is when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins in the body. A blood clot is a clump that occurs when blood turns to a solid state from a liquid state. It can cause leg pain and swelling. Deep vein blood clots are typically formed in the thigh or lower leg, but can also develop in other areas of the body.

Possible Causes:

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins in your body, usually in your legs. This can be very serious because this clot can travel through your bloodstream and lodge in your lungs. This causes the blood flow to get blocked and is called pulmonary embolism.

Risk Factors:

A number of factors increase the risk and are also deep vein thrombosis causes:

  • Inherited blood-clotting disorder.
  • Prolonged bed rest, such as a long hospital stay, or paralysis.
  • Sitting for long periods of time, when driving or while flying.
  • Injury or surgery of the veins.
  • Pregnancy increases the pressure in the veins around your pelvis and legs. Women with an inherited clotting disorder are especially at risk.
  • Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) or hormone replacement therapy. Both can increase your blood's ability to clot.
  • Being overweight or obese.
  • Smoking.
  • Cancer: some forms of cancer increase substances in your blood that lead to clots.
  • Heart failure.
  • Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
  • A personal or family history of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
  • Age over 60 years.
     

Signs and Symptoms:

Deep vein thrombosis symptoms may not be very apparent. Or you may notice signs like pain, swelling, redness or warmth in your leg.

If untreated, deep vein thrombosis could lead to pulmonary embolism, which will manifest in symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, dizziness, fainting, rapid pulse or coughing up blood.

Diagnosis:

At Medcare, the specialist will discuss your symptoms and will check for tenderness, swelling and discolouration of your skin. Other deep vein thrombosis tests could include ultrasound, blood test, venography, CT or MRI scans.

Treatment Options:

Visit Medcare to consult a vascular surgery specialist and get the best deep vein thrombosis treatment option for your condition. Deep vein thrombosis treatment aims to prevent the clot from becoming bigger, moving and leading to pulmonary embolism. 

Medication such as blood thinners or clot busters may be prescribed. Insertion of a filter is another procedure that treats DVT. This filter is inserted into a vein in your abdomen, to prevent chances of pulmonary embolism.

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FAQs:

الأسئلة الشائعة:

Inclusions:

  • My work involves taking long flights quite often. Do I need to be careful about DVT?

    A: Sitting for many hours in cramped aircraft seats hampers blood circulation and increases the risk of DVT. The longer the flight, the higher the risk.

    You can take certain precautions against DVT such as moving around as much as possible, stretching your legs and feet while seated. Avoid crossing your legs, wearing tight clothing and drinking alcohol while flying.

  • Is exercise beneficial for patients of DVT?

    A: Resuming a regular fitness routine after a DVT is important. Consult your doctor about what exercises are right for you. Start with a warm up and short walks, post which you can gradually increase the distance.

  • I have had DVT in the past, should I wear compression stockings?

    A: Ask your doctor whether compression stockings suit your condition. These stockings help prevent blood from collecting in your lower legs.

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