Deep Vein Thrombosis

Every year, more than 1 million people* in India are affected by deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Deep vein thrombosisis a serious health condition that arises when a blood clot, which is called a thrombus in medical language, is formed in any of the deep veins, thus hindering the normal flow of blood.

To better understand this condition, we must understand what deep veins are, as they are directly related to Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Normally, there are two types of veins in the body:

1. Superficial veins are located close to the body’s surface and lie just beneath the skin

2. Deep veins lie deep in the body and are usually found below the muscles and the bones. Majority of the oxygen-depleted or de-oxygenated blood is carried by the deep veins

DVT is usually seen in the thighs, lower legs or feet, but can appear in other body parts as well. While this condition itself is not life threatening, if left untreated, it can lead to a serious condition called Pulmonary Embolism or PE. When a blood clot or a part of it, breaks free and travels through the bloodstream, it is called an embolus. There are high chances that it can enter the lungs via the pulmonary artery (the most important artery that carries oxygen from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation). This fatal condition that blocks the passage of blood into the lungs is called pulmonary embolism.

Deep vein thrombosis can be a result of an underlying disorder, such as :

  • An injury or damage to the lining surface of a deep vein
  • Slow or abnormal blood flow through a deep vein
  • A hereditary tendency of a person’s blood to clot easily or quickly

While one does not have control over these underlying conditions, it is important to note that there are several factors that increase the risk of developing DVT. Awareness about these factors can enable an early diagnosis and thus, a timely treatment.

  • Age: Though this disorder can occur anytime, the risk factor increases after 40. People who stand or sit for prolonged hours are more likely to develop this disease
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  • Recent surgery: This is one of the most significant deep vein thrombosis causes because any injury to the veins increases the chance of blood clots
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  • Prolonged bed rest: When your legs are immobile for a long time, such as during paralysis or a hospital stay, the calf muscles do not provide the essential support for blood circulation. This can lead to a blood clot in the leg
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  • Smoking: Smoking leads to the thickening of the blood, thus resulting in its clotting. The more you smoke, the higher the risk of DVT
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  • Birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy: Using oral contraceptives or going for a hormone replacement therapy can increase the chances of a blood clot
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  • Pregnancy: Pregnancy increases the pressure on the pelvis and the feet. Note that the risk factor continues till six weeks after pregnancy
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  • Obesity: A BMI(body mass index) of 30 or more is strongly linked with DVT
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  • Sitting for long periods of time: Calf muscles play a key role in assisting blood flow back to the heart from your legs. Sitting or lying in one place over a long period slows down blood circulation, thus increasing the possibility of clot formation
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  • Cardio failure: Any previous heart diseases can multiply the risk of DVT
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Surprisingly, only half of the patients show any of the deep vein thrombosis symptoms, which include:

  • Swelling in the foot, ankle or leg, especially on one side
  • Pain and tenderness in the leg
  • Warm skin around the affected area
  • Cramps in the affected leg
  • Reddish, bluish, or pale skin
  • Soreness while walking or standing

When DVT generates into a pulmonary embolism, the following symptoms are observed:

  • Coughing
  • Breathlessness
  • Sudden collapse
  • Spitting or vomiting blood
  • Unexplained pain in the chest

Taking anticoagulants and using compression stockings are two of the most common deep vein thrombosis treatments.

Compression socks/stockings are the tightest around the ankles. The pressure of the compression decreases as you go up the legs, thus preventing the pooling of blood in the feet. Also, because they squeeze or compress the calf muscles, they aid in improving blood circulation and managing the signs of DVT.

If you are facing any of the above symptoms of DVT, do not delay further. Schedule an appointment with a doctor immediately and get the condition treated before it progresses.

*Source: Apollo Hospitals

Deep Vein Thrombosis

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Yes, your risk of developing an ulcer is elevated. The vessels’ functioning is so disturbed that there is stasis. Then edema appears and your skin aspect changes – at first a color change, then it itches and eczema appears. As time passes, your skin hardens. A small wound or an inflammation due to a mosquito bite are enough to cause deterioration to your skin. An ulcer forms. These changes appear gradually and can in most cases be resolved with treatment.

No, as the risk factors like genetic predisposition and higher age cannot be treated. But you can prevent symptoms and also signs of chronic venous insufficiency if you have varicose veins. Keep moving! Use the staircase rather than the elevator. Practice a sport that stimulates your venous system like cycling, swimming, or walking. Raise your legs and move as often as possible. It is also recommended to shower your legs with cold water and to wear compression socks or stockings.