Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis, also known as a DVT, is a potentially dangerous blood clot (thrombus) that can develop in any one of the body's deep veins. Deep veins are one of the body's vein systems found deep in the muscles. They regulate blood flow and control body temperature. DVT's can block deep veins, or more seriously, break off and travel to the heart, where they can be circulated into the lung's arteries, blocking the flow of blood and causing death. A deep vein thrombosis can develop anywhere in the body, but is most commonly formed in the legs.

What Causes a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?

There are 3 major factors that can lead to a clot in the deep veins:

 Damage to a vein, possibly caused by a broken bone, surgery, or muscle injury;
 Slow blood flow, most commonly caused by immobilization;
 Conditions that enhance the tendency of blood to clot, such as a medical condition or medication.

Individuals with the highest risk of developing a DVT are those that:

 Are confined to bed for recovery from a health or surgical condition;
 Have fractured their leg and must wear a leg cast, or who have recently had surgery in the hip or leg area;
 Have had a stroke or spinal cord injury that has caused paralysis
 Are taking hormone replacement therapy;
 Are obese;
 Sit for extended periods of time with little or no movement, especially with crossed legs, on a bus, car, train, or airplane.

Additionally, medical or inherited disorders can raise certain individuals' risk of developing a deep vein thrombosis. Pregnancy, cancer, certain medications, blood disorders, and vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiencies are all common factors that increase the probability of developing a DVT.

What Are the Symptoms of a Deep Vein Thrombosis?

The most common indication of a deep vein thrombosis is pain and/or swelling in the leg where a DVT has developed. However, many individuals with a DVT have no symptoms until the blood clot has dislodged. The movement of the clot in the deep veins can cause a rapid heart beat, a sharp pain in the chest intensified by deep breathing, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood. When these symptoms are present, it is important to seek medical attention, as a DVT can cause individuals to pass out, or perhaps die from heart or lung failure.

Can a Deep Vein Thrombosis Be Treated?

A deep vein thrombosis can be successfully treated in a variety of ways. The most common treatment for an individual diagnosed with a DVT is an anticoagulant medication. Anticoagulants alter some chemicals in the blood to reduce the chance of clots forming easily. Although they cannot break up existing clots-something the body is able to do over time-anticoagulants can prevent the formation of new clots and reduce the size of existing clots.
A compression stocking, also known as support hose, can also help treat a deep vein thrombosis in the legs. When worn, compression stockings promote improved blood circulation through the body, especially towards the heart, by exerting graduate amounts of pressure.

Can a Deep Vein Thrombosis Be Prevented?

Individuals can reduce their risk of developing a DVT in many simple ways, including:

 Daily exercise involving the legs, such as a brisk walk;
 Frequent breaks during long periods of sitting, such as driving;
 Walking or stretching in the aisle of a plane or bus during travel;
 Drinking plenty of water;

Those who feel they have an increased risk of developing a deep vein thrombosis should speak with their doctor about forming a preventative plan, possibly with anticoagulant medicine or support hose.

Although deep vein thromboses are a notable health risk, individuals can prevent their formation or decrease their risk of developing a DVT by staying active and utilizing the successful medical treatments available.

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