Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a pathological condition associat with impaired blood flow in the veins, caused by the formation of a blood clot and blockage of the blood vessel lumen. This condition is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. If left untreated the clot can travel through the blood to the lungs and cause pulmonary embolism. Which can be life-threatening for the patient.
Table of Contents
Causes of Deep Vein Thrombosis
| Category | Specific Causes/Risk Factors |
|---|---|
| Inflammation | Local or systemic inflammation |
| Circulatory Issues | Slow blood flow, blood stasis |
| Vessel Damage | Trauma, surgery, or puncture to blood vessels |
| Genetic/Acquired | Hereditary clotting disorders, cancer, obesity |
| Hormonal | Oral contraceptives, pregnancy, hormone therapy |
| Immobility | Prolonged bed rest, paralysis, long flights |
| Other | — |
Expounding the disease’s specific causes allows a thorough diagnosis and helps in studying the patient’s history. You can get in touch for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) diagnosis if you suspect any risk factors.
Key Risk Factors That Can Trigger Deep Vein Thrombosis
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Prolonged bed rest during a serious illness
- Varicose veins
- Prolonged immobility of the body
- Serious infections or sepsis
- A stroke that is accompanied by paralysis of the limbs
- Obesity
- Cancer (oncological diseases)
- Uncontrolled intake of hormonal contraceptives
- Increased blood clotting (hypercoagulable conditions)
- Rare cases after vein puncture or catheter insertion
For developing deep vein thrombosis, the action of one of the factors listed is sufficient. Therefore, with an increased risk of the disease, regular preventive medical examinations should be carried out.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Symptoms
Pain in the area of blocked veins.
Local swelling of the limb.
Increase in body temperature.
Formation of a blood clot inside the vein, which can partially or completely block blood flow.
Patients report an increase in Deep Vein Thrombosis symptoms over several days, which makes them seek medical help. In some cases, the development of the disease is asymptomatic, and only edematous phenomena indicate it.
Suppose the increase in swelling and a sharp increase in pain are accompanied by chest pain, fever, or coughing spells. In that case, contacting the nearest medical facility or calling an ambulance is recommended. Otherwise, there is a risk of separation of the thrombus and blockage of the vessels of the lungs.
Diagnostics of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
The initial deep vein thrombosis diagnosis can be made already at the initial examination of the affected areas with noticeable swelling and blood stasis. The following types of studies can confirm assumptions regarding DVT:
- Clinical blood test.
- X-ray examination with contrast allows you to see the lumen of the vessels and the formed blood clots that caused the blood flow disturbance.
- CT and MRI in vascular mode.
- Ultrasound diagnostics and its varieties – Dopplerometry or angioscanning.
It is possible to conduct additional studies to clarify the cause and dynamics of the pathological process, especially if the symptoms increase rapidly and cause significant inconvenience to the patient.
Treatment for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
If the patient does not have a rapid increase in deep vein thrombosis symptoms, they are prescribed a conservative course of treatment. In the list of recommended drugs:
- Anticoagulants (blood thinners) that reduce the chance of blood clots. These medicines should only be taken on the recommendation and under the supervision of a specialist.
Also, among the methods of treatment of the disease:
- Wearing compression bandages and stockings ordered individually. They have preventive and therapeutic value, mainly if the selection is carried out considering the doctor’s recommendations.
- Implantation of a cava filter into the central vein prevents the migration of blood clots and reduces the risk of blockage of the pulmonary vessels. The filter installation can be temporary or permanent, carried out under local anesthesia, and does not usually involve prolonged patient hospitalization.
Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis
| Preventive Measure | Details |
|---|---|
| Leg Elevation | During sleep or rest to improve blood return |
| Avoid Long Periods of Inactivity | Especially after surgery, during travel, or illness |
| Wear Compression Stockings | Especially during long flights or recovery |
| Stay Hydrated | Prevents blood thickening and clot risk |
| Regular Physical Activity | Walking, light exercise, stretching |
| Healthy Weight Maintenance | Obesity is a major DVT risk factor |
Other recommendations for treating deep vein thrombosis can be obtained from the attending phlebologist.
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