Deep vein thrombosis refers to the formation of a blood clot in a vein located deep inside the body. Blood clots form when the blood thickens and clumps together. It commonly affects the large veins found in the thighs and lower legs. Deep vein thrombosis may occur at any age, but are most common in adults over 60 years of age. It may occur to anyone, even in healthy individuals.
Deep vein thrombosis should not be confused with an embolism. The latter pertains to a blood clot that breaks off and moves through the bloodstream. The embolism may wedge itself in the arteries found in the brain, lungs, heart or any other area of the body and block blood flow. Deep vein thrombosis is not dangerous on its own, however, when it breaks off, this is where potential danger develops. Complications that may arise from deep vein thrombosis include pulmonary embolism and postphlebitic syndrome. In some cases, complications arising from deep vein thrombosis may lead to death.
Causes of Deep Vein Thrombosis
The following may lead to formation of blood clots in the blood vessels leading to deep vein thrombosis:
- Damage or injury to the vein’s inner lining via physical, chemical or biological factors
- Slow blood flow
- Thicker than normal blood
Risk Factors for Deep Vein Thrombosis
The following factors are known to increase risks of developing deep vein thrombosis in individuals:
- Staying in a particular position for prolonged periods of times, such as in long flights or long car rides
- Prolonged bed rest
- History of deep vein thrombosis or family history
- Certain inherited blood disorders
- Surgery or after surgery
- Recent broken bone or trauma to a deep vein
- Use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
- Cancer treatment
- Heart failure
- Pregnancy and up to six weeks postpartum
- Overweight or obesity
- Ageing
- Smoking
Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Many causes of deep vein thrombosis do not manifest symptoms however, some of the following symptoms that may show include:
- Swelling of the leg or along a vein the leg
- Leg pain or tenderness upon standing or walking
- Redness or skin discoloration of the affected leg
- Warmth in the affected leg
Treatment for Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis would require immediate medical treatment to avoid complications from developing. Medications or surgical procedures may be required.
- Medications to thin the blood
- Anticoagulants
- Thrombin inhibitors
- Thrombolytics
- Other treatments, in case medications are not successful
- Vena cava filter
- Gradated compression stockings
Disclaimer: This article does not provide medical advice or treatment. The information given should not be used for self-diagnosis. Seek medical attention when necessary. To learn more about to how to give CPR in cases of medical emergencies such as pulmonary embolism, enrol in a first aid class with a credible provider.
Source:
What is Deep Vein Thrombosis?. (2013). National Institutes of Health. Retrieved September 27, 2013, from http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/dvt/