What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?
- Posted on: Sep 12 2024
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common but serious type of blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. DVT blood clots can also develop in a person’s arms, pelvis, or other areas. After heart attacks and strokes, DVT is the third leading cause of cardiovascular-related deaths.
The Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis
If you have any of the following symptoms of deep vein thrombosis, it’s crucial you receive medical treatment as soon as possible:
- Warm skin around the painful area
- Swelling in one leg and in rare cases both legs
- Throbbing pain in one leg, usually in the calf or thigh when standing up or walking
- Swollen veins that are sore or hard when you touch them
- Darked or red skin around the painful area
Although deep vein thrombosis is more common in the legs, it can develop in the arms or elsewhere. If you’re experiencing these symptoms in any part of your body, a medical examination is important.
Risk Factors for Deep Vein Thrombosis
Knowing the risk factors of deep vein thrombosis is important. Individuals with the following risk factors will benefit from seeking treatment from a cardiologist:
- Are overweight
- Are over 60
- Smoke
- Have had deep vein thrombosis previously
- Have heart failure or cancer
- Take a contraceptive pill or HRT
- Have varicose veins
- Are confined to a bed
- Go on a journey longer than three hours by car, train, or plane
- Are pregnant or have had a baby within the last six weeks
- Are dehydrated
Additionally, suppose you are staying or have left the hospital recently. In that case, especially if you can’t move around, for example, if you recently underwent surgery and have been more immobile than you usually are, you’re at a higher risk of developing a deep vein thrombosis.
DVT is a Serious but Treatable Medical Condition
As with many cardiovascular conditions, the sooner a patient receives medical treatment, the better their outcome. Depending on the factors of your case, you may receive an injection of blood-thinning medicine called heparin while waiting for an ultrasound. An ultrasound can determine whether you have a deep vein thrombosis. You may need surgery to remove the blood clots or prevent them from forming in the future. Many patients need to take blood-thinning medications for at least three months after being diagnosed with DVT.
Lifestyle changes can help you recover from DVT and prevent further blood clots. After you’re treated, you’ll benefit from regular walking. You don’t need to walk at a fast pace or run. Walking at a moderate pace can help your circulation to your legs. When sitting, it’s important to keep your affected leg raised while you’re sitting. You’ll benefit from delaying any long journeys or flights for at least two weeks after taking blood-thinning medication. Staying at a healthy weight, drinking enough fluids, quitting smoking, moderating alcohol use, and staying active are all important lifestyle changes.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Cardiologist on Long Island
If you have symptoms of deep vein thrombosis, you should seek medical attention immediately. DVT is treatable but may require immediate surgery to prevent serious complications. Contact Cardiovascular Wellness to schedule an appointment with a skilled cardiologist. We can help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan to help prevent additional DVTs from developing in the future.
Cardiovascular Wellness Specialty Care, P.C. serves all of Long Island, New York, with locations in Lake Success and Hicksville, including Nassau County, Suffolk County, Great Neck, Manhasset, and surrounding areas.
Posted in: Heart Health
