Deep Vein Thrombosis Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

What is Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis is a medical condition wherein formation of blood clot occurs in a particular or multiple deep veins present in our body, specifically in the legs. Consequently, it cause swelling or pain, however it may even strike without any obvious symptom.

Some medical conditions responsible for affecting the way our blood clots can lead deep vein thrombosis. However, not moving for a prolong period of time for example after an accident or surgery, may also invite the condition to happen. Clearly, the condition is life-threatening as blood clots present in the veins can easily travel or break through the bloodstream. They can then lodge in the lungs, consequently blocking the flow of blood.

What are the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis?

Symptoms of the condition include:

Swelling or pain in your affected leg.
Often, pain begins in the calf and would feel like soreness or a cramp.

In some cases, the condition occurs without the above mentioned symptoms.

What causes deep vein thrombosis?

Formation of blood clot in veins present deep in our body can cause deep vein thrombosis. Such clotting of blood can occur due to any medical condition that prevents the blood from clotting or circulating normally.

What are the risk factors of deep vein thrombosis?

Certain factors that may increase the chances of developing deep vein thrombosis are:

Extended bed rest, for example during paralysis or a long stay in hospital.
If any blood-clotting disorder runs in your family.
Surgery or injury.
Hormone replacement therapy.
Birth control medicines.
Being obese.
Smoking.
Certain types of cancer.
Few types of can treatments.
Heart failure.
Inflammatory bowel disease.
Family or personal history of pulmonary embolism or DVT.
People above sixty years of age.
Prolonged sitting for example when flying or driving.

What are the possible complications of deep vein thrombosis?

Possible complication linked with the condition is pulmonary embolism.

How is deep vein thrombosis diagnosed?

Your doctor will need you to answer certain questions related to your symptoms. He or she will perform a physical exam in order to look for discoloration, tenderness or swelling on any area. In case of doubt, the doctor can recommend the following tests:

Blood test.
Ultrasound.
MRI or CT scan.
Venography.

How is deep vein thrombosis treated?

Its treatment focuses on preventing the prevailing clot to turn bigger and breaking loose. After which it focuses to reduce the risk of developing the condition again. Its treatment options are: