Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a dangerous medical condition which is thought to occur in roughly 1 in every 1,000 adults worldwide each year. DVT is slightly more likely to occur in men than it is in women, and the overall risk of developing the condition increases sharply after 45 years old. Other risk factors include surgery, immobility, pregnancy, trauma and hospitalization.

If deep vein thrombosis remains undetected it can eventually cause a pulmonary embolism (PE). In roughly a quarter of patients, sudden death is the first symptom that a pulmonary embolism has occurred.

This article details DVT symptoms and prevention tips. Knowing when to see a doctor can mean the difference between life and death, as leaving DVT unchecked increases the likelihood that the patient will experience a pulmonary embolism. Read on to learn more about this condition.

What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis occurs when thickened blood (due to illness or medication) causes one or more blood clots to form in the body’s deep veins. Extended periods of inactivity can also cause this, as blood flow slows enough to allow clotting. The thighs, lower leg and groin are the most common areas for DVT to occur, though it can happen elsewhere.

Pulmonary embolisms occur when a DVT blood clot enters the blood stream and blocks the flow of blood into the lungs. This condition is referred to as VTE.

Early Signs and Symptoms

DVT typically presents with one or more of the following symptoms:

• One sided swelling in the foot, ankle or leg
• Cramping in the thigh or calf of one leg
• Severe pain in the foot or ankle
• A feeling of warmth around the affected area
• Red or blueish skin around the affected area

Prevention

Limit your risk of developing deep vein thrombosis with these prevention tips:

• Drink plenty of water
• Get up and move around if you are sitting still for periods of four hours or more
• Quit smoking
• Lose weight (if you are in the overweight or obese category)
• Boost circulation with foot exercises if you’re sat still
• Consider compression stockings or blood thinners
• When travelling, get up and walk regularly

Treatment Options

Mild DVT may be treated with compression socks and low strength blood thinning tablets. Common blood thinners include:

• Dabigatran
• Edoxaban
• Fondaparinux
• Heparin
• Rivaroxaban
• Warfarin

Blood thinners can prevent new clots from forming while slowing the growth of existing clots, though they will not break up or shrink existing clots. If your doctor feels this is necessary, they may prescribe an intravenous clot-busting medication.

People who cannot take blood thinning medication due to a pre-existing health condition may have a small filtration device fitted into the affected vein behind the clot. This will stop the clot from reaching the lungs and causing a pulmonary embolism if it breaks loose.

Speak To Your General Physician

It is essential to make an appointment with your doctor right away if you think you might be suffering from DVT. Severe chest pain or shortness of breath may indicate a pulmonary embolism. Seek emergency medical care immediately if this occurs.