Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Posted by Healthfitline On Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) inside the deep vein, usually a complication of immobility. However, it can also result from other medical conditions that affect the blood circulation. It is more common in elderly but it can develop at any age group. Patients who develop deep vein thrombosis are at risk for pulmonary embolism; a fatal complication. Pulmonary embolism occurs when a clot breaks away and travel through the blood stream until it reaches the lung, leading to serious breathing related symptoms.  
 
Deep Vein Thrombosis Causes and Risk Factors
  • Remaining in one position or sitting down for many hours.
  • Stroke and paralysis
  • Injuries to the blood vessels
  • Family history of blood clotting disorders
  • Pregnancy 
  • Heart failure
  • Oral contraceptive and hormone replacement therapies
  • Obesity and overweight
  • Smoking 
Signs and Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis 
Some signs and symptoms of DVT include; 
  • Low grade fever (usually this is the first sign of DVT) 
  • Skin is warm and tender when touched 
  • Edema and swelling of the extremity 
  • Increased leg circumference or girth 
  • Changes of the skin color of the affected leg
Deep Vein Thrombosis Complications 
Pulmonary Embolism 
Pulmonary Embolism is a life threatening complication of deep vein thrombosis that occurs when the lung get blocked by the blood clot. Signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism include;
 
  • Sudden chest pain 
  • Headache 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Feeling dizzy or fainting episodes 
  • Increasing pulse rate or rapid pulse 
  • Profuse sweating
  • Apprehensiveness or feeling anxious
  • Abnormal blood gas values - used to measure the level of oxygen and carbondioxide in the blood to determine how well the lung are functioning (results - increased PaCO2 and decreases PaO2).
Post Thrombotic Syndrome (Post-Phlebitic Syndrome) 
Post-Phlebitic Syndrome is a long term complication from deep vein thrombosis. The veins get destroyed by clots that are formed inside the deep veins, leading to impaired blood flow. Some of the common signs and symptoms of Post-Phlebitic Syndrome include; 
  • Pain and tenderness on the affected leg 
  • Edema or swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin due to decreased blood flow to the leg. 
Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosis Tests 
In addition to physical examination, other tests that may be done include; 
  • Duplex Ultrasound - a non- invasive procedure used to visualize the affected leg and the blood clot.  
  • MRI and CT Scans - to visualize the exact location where the clot is located and adjacent  structures. 
  • Blood test – to measure the clotting factors
  • Venogram – A contrast dye is injected into the vein to help the physician to visualize the affected vein. 
Deep Vein Thrombosis Treatment
Treatment of deep vein thrombosis is directed towards making sure the patient remains comfortable and to prevent possible complications. Treatment may include; 
 
  • Use of thrombolytic - to dissolve the blood clots found inside the veins. 
  • Anticoagulant - to prevent further clotting of blood. 
  • Compression stockings - thigh length stockings or knee length stockings may be used. These stockings are used to prevent blood pool and formation of more clots. Proper measurement and application of stockings is needed for them to be effective. 
  • Pain medications
Deep Vein Thrombosis Prevention 
Since deep vein thrombosis results from any condition or situation that impair proper circulation of the blood, there are a few things that you can do to prevent or to help in improving the circulation. Such as; 
 
  • Cessation of smoking 
  • Exercise to help in improving the venous return. 
  • Avoid long hour of sitting or standing in one place. If you are travelling in a plane, move around inside the plane or use something to support your legs when sitting down. 
  • Frequently inspect your legs for edema and swelling.
  • Lose weight if you are obese or overweight.
  • Consult your physician if you notice any unusual swelling on your legs. 
  • Wear compression stockings as recommended by your doctor. 
  • Seek appropriate medical advise as soon as possible. 
Labels: Deep Vein Thrombosis, Diseases and Conditions, home

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