What You Need to Know about DVT

Deep vein thrombosis or DVT is a serious vascular condition characterized by the formation of a blood clot in one of the deep veins of the body. The clot usually forms in a vessel of the lower leg and often occurs without any noticeable symptoms. However, if left unchecked, it can lead to life-threatening events for a small number of individuals. That is why it is important to educate yourself about DVT, particularly if you are at higher risk for the condition.

Risk Factors for DVT
While anyone can develop DVT, there are certain factors that put an individual at higher risk for the condition:

• Major surgery on the leg, chest or abdomen
• Extended bed rest due to illness, hospital stay or paralysis
• Long periods of sitting, such as while traveling in a car or plane
• Previous history of blood clotting abnormalities or vascular disease
• Family history of vascular conditions
• Some types of cancer
• Significant weight gain
• Smoking

A study performed by German researchers in 2012 also found a significant link between the presence of varicose veins and risk of DVT. Authors of the study recommended special medical attention for patients with varicose veins, particularly if they are combined with other risk factors like a recent hospital discharge or history of blood clots.

Symptoms of DVT
In many cases, patients do not know they have DVT because they have no noticeable symptoms of the condition. Those that do have symptoms may exhibit any or all of the following:

• Swelling of the lower limb
• Pain or tenderness in the affected leg
• Discoloration of the skin
• Increased visibility of surface veins
• Increased heart rate
• Feeling of warmth to the skin

Dangers of DVT
DVT can become serious and even life-threatening if it is left unchecked. If the blood clot breaks loose from its original location and travels through the bloodstream, it can get trapped in a lung. This can lead to a pulmonary embolism, which can block oxygen into the lung and cause heart failure. Early treatment of DVT greatly reduces a person’s risk of a pulmonary embolism.

At Center for Vein Restoration, we understand the potential complications varicose veins can lead to, such as DVT. We offer state-of-the-art diagnostics to pinpoint the cause of your varicose veins and determine if any other conditions are present. With the latest in treatment technology, we can tailor treatment of varicose veins to your specific needs. To learn more about varicose veins, or schedule your personal vein evaluation, contact Center for Vein Restoration.