Deep vein thrombosis

DEFINITION

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in your body, usually in your legs. DVT can cause leg pain or swelling, but may occur without any symptoms. It can be a serious condition as blood clots can break loose and travel to your lungs, causing a blockage known as Pulmonary embolism.

SYMPTOMS

• Swelling in the affected leg
• Pain in your leg, often starting in the calf

CAUSES

DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in deep veins, often due to conditions affecting blood clotting or prolonged immobility.

RISK FACTORS

Various factors increase DVT risk, including genetics, prolonged bed rest, surgery, pregnancy, certain medications, obesity, smoking, cancer, heart failure, inflammatory bowel disease, age, and prolonged sitting.

COMPLICATIONS

The main complication of DVT is Pulmonary embolism. Postphlebitic syndrome can also occur post-DVT.

PREPARING FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

Gather information on symptoms and family history. Prepare questions for your doctor to maximize your appointment efficiency.

TESTS AND DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis involves a physical exam and tests like ultrasound, blood tests, venography, and CT/MRI scans.

TREATMENTS AND DRUGS

Treatment aims to prevent clot growth and Pulmonary embolism risk through blood thinners, clotbusters if severe, filters for some cases, and compression stockings.

LIFESTYLE AND HOME REMEDIES

Preventive measures include taking prescribed medications as directed, avoiding prolonged immobility, making lifestyle changes like weight loss and quitting smoking, and regular exercise.

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QUESTIONS

1. What is DVT?

DVT stands for Deep vein thrombosis.

2. What are the symptoms of DVT?

Swelling in the affected leg and leg pain are common symptoms.

3. What are the risk factors for DVT?

Risk factors include genetics, immobility, surgery, pregnancy, obesity, smoking, cancer, heart failure, age, and prolonged sitting.

4. What is a serious complication of DVT?

Pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening complication.

5. How is DVT diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves physical exams and tests like ultrasound and blood tests.

6. What treatments are used for DVT?

Treatments include blood thinners, clotbusters if severe, filters in some cases, and compression stockings.

7. How can DVT be prevented at home?

Preventive measures include staying active after surgery or bed rest and making lifestyle changes like weight loss and regular exercise.

8. What is postphlebitic syndrome?

A condition that can occur after DVT characterized by swelling of legs and skin changes.

9. Why is it important to seek medical attention for signs of Pulmonary embolism?

Pulmonary embolism is a fatal complication that requires immediate medical care.

10. What lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of DVT?

Losing weight, quitting smoking, staying active with regular exercise can lower the risk of developing DVT.