Deep Vein Thrombosis: All you need to know

Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT is the condition in which a thrombus is formed in the deep veins in the legs. But, what is thrombosis? A thrombosis is a clot of coagulated blood in the circulatory system. Generally, a thrombus in the superficial veins in the calf resolves without complications, but the ones in the deep veins in the calf, thigh or pelvic areas, are known as Deep Vein Thrombosis.

Additionally, when this clot breaks loose, and travels through the bloodstream proximally, it is called an embolus. When such an embolus affects the pulmonary circulation (affects the lungs) it is known as pulmonary embolism. It is potentially a life-threatening disorder.
The warning signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism are:

• Sudden onset of breathlessness.
• Chest pain that worsens with deep breaths or chest movements like coughing.
• Feeling dizzy or fainting.
• Rapid breathing.
• Coughing up blood.

What Are The Risk Factors For DVT?
DVT in the lower extremities is a common complication after any musculoskeletal injury, surgery, prolonged immobilization or insults to the walls of the vein. A list of common risk factors is mentioned below:

• Postoperative or post-fracture immobilization.
• Sedentary lifestyle with prolonged periods of sitting.
• Prolonged bed rest.
• Trauma to venous circulation (vessels).
• Active malignancy (in the past 6 months)
• Limb paralysis.
• Obesity.
• Advanced age.
• Congestive Heart Failure.
• Use Of Oral Contraceptives.
• Pregnancy.

Signs And Symptoms Of DVT
The signs and symptoms of DVT include:

• Dull aching or severe pain. The pain often starts in the calf and feels like cramps or muscle soreness.
• Swelling. Commonly in the affected leg.
• Changes in the skin temperature. A feeling of warmth in the affected leg.
• Skin changes. Red or discoloured skin of the leg.

Diagnosis Of DVT

• When the clinical features likely point toward a positive case, medical testing should be initiated to confirm or rule out the condition.
• Diagnostic tests such as ultrasonography, venous duplex screening, or venography can confirm the condition.

Treatment For DVT
The treatment for DVT includes:

• Blood thinners: DVT patients are commonly treated with blood thinners. They can be taken orally or injected.
• Thrombolytics: Also called clot busters.
• Filters: A filter is inserted into the vena cava. The vena cava filter prevents the clot that breaks loose from lodging in the lungs.
• Compression stockings: Compression stockings reduce the chances of blood pooling and clot formation. It also helps to prevent swelling.

How Sancheti Hospital can help?
DVT patients need to be extra careful as it can be a life-threatening condition. If you have been diagnosed with a DVT, you should consider consulting with doctors at Sancheti Hospital. They will be able to advise you on the best treatment for DVT. Sancheti Hospital has an excellent team of experienced doctors and access to the latest medical technology and equipment. Experience optimal care under the supervision of highly qualified experts who can help you recover faster with minimal pain.