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Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep Vein Thrombosis affects as many as 900,000 American each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Additionally, 3 out of 10 people who have a blood clot will have a recurring episode within 10 years.
Are you experiencing any of the following symptoms?
Sudden Swelling In Your Leg
Pain In Your Leg
Warmth or Discoloration
Rapid Pulse
What is Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins within the body. Blood clots, also known as thrombus, may form in a prominent vein, most commonly found in the legs and are accompanied by swelling or pain. If untreated, a blood clot can become life-threatening if it dislodges and reaches vital organs.
DVT can happen when veins become injured or blood flow slow down within the vein. Blood clots may completely or partially block blood from flowing freely. While DVT often occurs in the lower leg or thigh, it may happen in the arm, or other areas.
DVT risk factors include being overweight, over the age of 60, taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, blood clotting disorders and not moving for longer periods of time, such as an extended hospital stay, pregnancy and paralysis. There are diseases and conditions that may also increase the chances of DVT, these include inflammatory bowel disease, Lupus, cancer and some forms of cancer treatment, heart problems, varicose veins and previous blood clot.
ARE YOU DEALING WITH A DVT?
THE ANSWER YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR...
DVT Symptoms
DVT symptoms can include rapid pulse, swelling, pain, warmth, redness or discoloration in the leg, arm or other areas of the body. These symptoms could indicate that you have a blood clot. DVT diagnosis must be made by a qualified healthcare provider or DVT specialist. However, it should be noted that DVT may occur without any symptoms at all.
Fortunately, there are several ways DVT may be prevented. These include remaining active and not sitting for long periods of time. Getting up to walk around and stretch every hour is advisable, if possible. If you are traveling and walking hourly isn’t feasible, standing or wiggling your legs, ankles and toes is recommended. If unable to move often, be sure to wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water and limit alcohol.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Treatment
If you believe that you have DVT, it is vital to be seen by a DVT specialist who can assess and diagnosis the condition. Following a medical and physical exam, lab work may be taken to examine if blood clots or other related issues are present. Next, an imaging test called Duplex Ultrasound may be used. The ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure that allows the specialist to see a picture of the blood flow pattern. Duplex ultrasound is the most common method for reaching a DVT diagnosis. Once a diagnosis has been made, a DVT specialist will consider the patient’s age, overall physical health, location of the clot, how long the clot has been present and preference of the patient before making a decision on how to proceed with treatment. The goal of treatment is to prevent the clot from increasing in size, as well as to prevent the clot from traveling to the lungs and other vital organs. Treatment will also help to lower the likelihood of a reoccurring clot in the future.
At South Atlanta Vascular Institute, we offer several deep vein thrombosis treatment options. Depending on a variety of factors, medication may be recommended. Blood thinners, also known as anticoagulants, are commonly used to decrease the chance of a blood clot occurring. Another type of medication, referred to as clot busters, may be used to break up clots that have already formed. Compression stockings may also be recommended to apply gentle pressure to the legs. In terms of procedures, an inferior vena cava filter could be recommended. In this case, a filter is placed in the large vein that returns blood from the body to the heart called the vena cava. The filter is used to stop clots from reaching the lungs and heart.
We Can Help!
The DVT specialists at South Atlanta Vascular Institute are available to answer any questions you may have. Our multi-specialty practice is home to a team of highly skilled and accredited vascular interventionalists and surgeons. Contact our office in Stockbridge, GA, today with questions, concerns or to schedule an appointment.