Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, occurs when blood clots form in the body's deep veins, typically within the legs. These clots can block healthy blood flow and lead to serious symptoms like swelling and persistent pain.
When left untreated, a clot can travel to the lungs and cause a dangerous complication known as a pulmonary embolism. Early identification is essential and often involves diagnostic tools like ultrasound imaging and D-dimer blood tests.
If you suspect you have DVT, it is critical to seek emergency medical attention immediately. Prompt treatment is necessary to prevent complications and may include the use of blood thinners or surgical intervention.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of deep vein thrombosis include:
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Swelling in one of the legs
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Throbbing pain in the affected area
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Redness in the leg
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Warmth in the area
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Difficulty putting weight on the affected leg
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Pain when the area is touched
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Hardening of the skin over the involved area
While deep vein thrombosis usually affects the legs, it can also occur in the veins of other parts of the body, such as the arms, causing similar symptoms. Additionally, if left untreated, severe venous thrombosis can lead to a pulmonary embolism.
If you suspect deep vein thrombosis, it is important to go to an emergency room for an evaluation and to start the appropriate treatment.
Also recommended: Blood Clot Symptoms (in the Legs, Brain, Lungs and More) tuasaude.com/en/blood-clot-symptomsConfirming a diagnosis
A diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis is generally made by an emergency physician who evaluates the symptoms and the patient's specific risk factors. Furthermore, tests such as D-dimer blood levels and a leg ultrasound may be ordered to confirm the presence of a clot.
Possible causes
Deep vein thrombosis is caused by the formation of a clot, usually in one of the legs, due to changes in circulation that increase the risk of blood coagulation. This tends to occur in people who have difficulty moving their limbs, those who are bedridden or immobilized, individuals with a sedentary lifestyle, pregnant women, or those who use intravenous drugs.
Additionally, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals with a history of previous thrombosis or cancer, as well as those with chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, face a significantly higher risk of developing clots. The elderly, individuals with obesity, smokers, and those who take oral hormonal contraceptives are also at an increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis.
Also recommended: 9 Birth Control Side Effects (& What to Do) tuasaude.com/en/birth-control-side-effectsDoes covid-19 increase the risk of thrombosis?
A COVID-19 infection increases the risk of developing blood clots that can result in deep vein thrombosis. This appears to happen most often in severe cases due to the intense inflammation caused by the virus and its direct impact on the blood vessels.
Based on findings from the American Heart Association (AHA), the intense inflammatory response triggered by a severe COVID-19 infection can directly damage blood vessel linings, substantially increasing the likelihood of venous thromboembolism.
Because of this, blood thinners may be recommended in certain COVID-19 cases, particularly for hospitalized patients with severe infections. Blood tests, such as platelet counts, fibrinogen, and D-dimer levels, may also be used to assess the overall risk of thrombosis.
Treatment options
Treatment for deep vein thrombosis is generally conducted in a hospital setting and involves the use of anticoagulant medications, such as heparin, rivaroxaban, or warfarin.
However, in some instances, doctors may recommend thrombolysis, which uses injectable medications to dissolve the clot, or surgery specifically for thrombosis.