Deep Vein Thrombosis – A Guide

What is deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Deep vein thrombosis refers to a blood clot (thrombus) in one of the deep veins, commonly in the lower leg.

What causes a DVT?

A deep vein thrombosis occurs when the blood clots abnormally and causes one of the deep veins to become blocked.

Risk factors

There are several risk factors for developing a DVT:

A family history of DVT or pulmonary embolism
A previous DVT or pulmonary embolism
Immobility, including being bed bound, and sitting for long periods
Injury to the vein, e.g. trauma or surgery
Blood clotting disorders in which the blood clots more easily than normal
Pregnancy
Overweight or obesity
Medications or treatments that affect blood clotting, e.g, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Symptoms

A DVT may cause some, all or none of the following symptoms in the area of the clot:

Pain
Swelling
Tenderness
A heavy ache in the affected area
Warmth

Gradual or sudden breathlessness, chest pain or collapse can indicate a pulmonary embolism. This occurs when a piece of the clot breaks off and blocks one of the blood vessels in the lungs. It is a life-threatening condition and emergency treatment is needed.

Treatment

Anti-coagulant medication Anti-coagulant medications stop the blood from clotting as easily. Heparin is usually given to stop an existing blood clot from getting bigger and breaking up in the blood. Warfarin is then usually used to prevent further clots. Compression therapy Compression can help to alleviate swelling of the limb and pain, and can reduce the risk of post-thrombotic syndrome and other conditions which are more likely to occur when you have had a DVT, such as a venous leg ulcer. Exercise Exercise can help to reduce the risk of another DVT occurring, as can elevating the affected limb above heart level if lying down, or above hip level when sitting. All of these things help to move the blood out of the limb.

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Condition Guides Deep Vein Thrombosis – A Guide