What is deep vein thrombosis (DVT) ?

Submitted by Emma Hamilton on Wed, 10/03/2010 - 11:12am

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the body. Deep vein thrombosis commonly occurs in the deep veins of the leg or thigh.

If a blood clot (thrombus) is left untreated it can break off and travel to other parts of the body. The loose blood clot is referred to as an embolus.

A pulmonary embolism is when a blood clot travels and becomes lodged in the lungs blocking blood flow. Pulmonary embolism is more common in people with DVT of the thigh. It is a serious medical condition that can be life threatening.

Many factors can increase your risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) including but not limited to:

A history of DVT
Coronary heart disease
Recent surgery or injury
Smoking
Some cancers
Obesity
Age over 65 years
Family history of blood clotting disorders

DVT can occur after long periods of inactivity, following surgery or after travelling for long distances in a car or plane.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) symptoms

DVT symptoms can vary. Some people with deep vein thrombosis have no obvious symptoms.

Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis may include:

Pain and tenderness in the affected leg
Discomfort when extending the foot
Swelling of the affected lower leg, ankle or foot
Discomfort when standing or walking on affected leg
Redness
Skin is warm to touch

Any symptoms of DVT should be seen by a doctor immediately. Blood clots can also form in other parts of the body such as the arm or neck, watch out for signs of swelling and pain.

Sometimes people are not aware they have DVT until they present with symptoms of a pulmonary embolus.

Warning signs of a pulmonary embolus

A pulmonary embolus is a blockage of an artery in the lungs. A pulmonary embolus can happen quickly and is a medical emergency.

If you are caring for someone who is at risk of DVT it's important to know the warning signs of a pulmonary embolus.

Signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolus include:

Shortness of breath
Sudden chest pain
Cough - may be sudden with blood tinged sputum
Rapid breathing and heart rate
Anxiety

Anyone with symptoms of pulmonary embolus should go to their local hospital immediately or ring 000.

Treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) includes medication to reduce the chances of another clot from forming and measures to prevent a pulmonary embolus.

Medications used to treat DVT are called anticoagulants or blood thinners. Anticoagulants help prevent another clot from forming and an existing clot from getting any bigger. They will not dissolve the clot, your body does this over time.

These medications will be started in hospital. Standard anticoagulants include heparin or warfarin. Most people take warfarin for several months after treatment for DVT.

People taking anticoagulants need to have their blood checked regularly. It's important to follow the doctor's instructions carefully when taking anticoagulants. A doctor may change the dose according to the test results. Side effects of anticoagulants can include internal bleeding.

A doctor will also recommend medications and certain foods to avoid whilst taking anticoagulants.

Following or prior to surgery compression stockings are often worn to prevent DVT. These stockings help to encourage blood flow, ease discomfort and reduce swelling. Compression stockings must be fitted correctly by a health professional.

Compression stockings can be very difficult to get on. Ask a doctor or nurse to show you how to put on compression stockings and ensure you have the right fit.

Treatment for DVT could involve early mobilisation after surgery or physiotherapy to prevent blood from pooling in the legs.

Raising the leg whilst resting may also help to reduce pain and swelling by preventing blood and fluid from pooling in the ankle.

Treatment for DVT and monitoring of blood tests may take several months or longer. People with DVT should always continue to follow a doctor's instructions even when they start to feel better.