What are the main causes of deep vein thrombosis. How can you recognize the symptoms of DVT. What are the most effective treatments for blood clots in the thigh. How to prevent deep vein thrombosis in high-risk situations.

Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition characterized by the formation of blood clots in deep veins, typically in the lower legs or thighs. These clots can impede blood flow and potentially lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated. DVT primarily affects large veins in the lower extremities but can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the arms and pelvis.

Is DVT a common condition? While it can affect people of all ages, DVT is most prevalent in adults over 60. However, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing this condition at any age.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for DVT

Understanding the causes and risk factors of DVT is crucial for prevention and early detection. Several elements can contribute to the formation of blood clots in deep veins:

• Prolonged immobility (e.g., long flights, bed rest)
• Recent surgery, especially hip, knee, or pelvic procedures
• Trauma or fractures in the lower body
• Pregnancy and postpartum period
• Obesity
• Family history of blood clots
• Certain medical conditions (cancer, autoimmune disorders)
• Hormone therapy or birth control pills
• Smoking
• Presence of a pacemaker catheter or indwelling catheter

Can lifestyle choices influence DVT risk? Indeed, certain habits like smoking, maintaining a sedentary lifestyle, or being overweight can significantly increase the likelihood of developing DVT. Making positive changes in these areas can help reduce your risk.

Recognizing the Symptoms of DVT

Identifying the signs of DVT early is crucial for prompt treatment and prevention of complications. The most common symptoms include:

• Swelling in the affected leg
• Pain or tenderness in the leg, often described as a cramping sensation
• Redness or discoloration of the skin
• Warmth in the affected area

Do all cases of DVT present with obvious symptoms? Not always. In some instances, DVT can be asymptomatic, making regular check-ups and awareness of risk factors even more important for those at higher risk.

Diagnostic Approaches for DVT

When DVT is suspected, healthcare providers employ various diagnostic tools to confirm the presence of blood clots:

1. Physical examination: Assessing swelling, tenderness, and skin changes
2. D-dimer blood test: Measuring a substance released when blood clots break down
3. Doppler ultrasound: Using sound waves to visualize blood flow in the veins
4. Venography: X-ray imaging with contrast dye to detect clots
5. MRI: Particularly useful for pelvic vein thrombosis

How accurate are these diagnostic methods? While no single test is 100% accurate, combining multiple approaches significantly improves the accuracy of DVT diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate tests based on your symptoms and risk factors.

Treatment Options for Deep Vein Thrombosis

Once diagnosed, prompt treatment of DVT is essential to prevent complications and alleviate symptoms. The main goals of treatment are to stop the clot from growing, prevent it from breaking loose, and reduce the risk of recurrence. Common treatment options include:

• Anticoagulant medications (blood thinners)
• Thrombolytic therapy for severe cases
• Compression stockings
• Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters for those who cannot take blood thinners

Are all treatments suitable for everyone? The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the location and severity of the clot, overall health, and risk of bleeding. Your healthcare provider will tailor the treatment plan to your specific situation.

Preventing DVT: Strategies for High-Risk Individuals

Prevention is key when it comes to DVT, especially for those at higher risk. Here are some effective strategies to reduce the likelihood of developing blood clots:

• Stay active and avoid prolonged periods of immobility
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay hydrated, especially during long travels
• Wear compression stockings as recommended by your doctor
• Follow post-surgery instructions carefully
• Manage underlying health conditions effectively
• Consider prophylactic anticoagulants in high-risk situations

Can lifestyle modifications significantly reduce DVT risk? Absolutely. Simple changes like regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking can substantially lower your risk of developing DVT.

Complications of Untreated DVT

Left untreated, DVT can lead to serious, potentially life-threatening complications. Understanding these risks emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment:

• Pulmonary embolism: A clot breaking loose and traveling to the lungs
• Post-thrombotic syndrome: Long-term swelling and pain in the affected limb
• Chronic venous insufficiency: Ongoing circulation problems in the affected vein

Is pulmonary embolism always a result of DVT? While DVT is a common cause of pulmonary embolism, not all cases of DVT lead to this complication. However, the risk is significant enough to warrant immediate medical attention for suspected DVT.

Living with DVT: Long-Term Management and Care

For those diagnosed with DVT, long-term management is crucial to prevent recurrence and manage ongoing symptoms. This may involve:

• Continued use of anticoagulants
• Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce risk factors
• Wearing compression stockings to improve circulation
• Engaging in appropriate exercise programs

Can patients fully recover from DVT? Many patients can recover fully with proper treatment and management. However, some may experience long-term effects, making ongoing care and lifestyle adjustments necessary.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Early detection and treatment of DVT can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. If you experience symptoms or fall into a high-risk category, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Prompt action could be life-saving.

Advances in DVT Research and Treatment

Ongoing research continues to enhance our understanding of DVT and improve treatment options. Some promising areas of study include:

• Novel anticoagulants with fewer side effects
• Improved diagnostic techniques for faster, more accurate detection
• Personalized treatment approaches based on genetic factors
• Enhanced prevention strategies for high-risk populations

How might future developments change DVT management? As research progresses, we can expect more targeted treatments, better prevention strategies, and improved outcomes for patients with DVT.

The Role of Technology in DVT Management

Technological advancements are playing an increasingly important role in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of DVT:

• Wearable devices to monitor blood flow and detect early signs of clots
• Mobile apps for medication reminders and symptom tracking
• Telemedicine for remote consultations and follow-ups
• AI-assisted diagnostic tools for more accurate and timely detection

Can technology replace traditional medical care for DVT? While these innovations enhance care, they complement rather than replace the expertise of healthcare professionals. A combination of technology and medical expertise offers the best approach to DVT management.

DVT in Special Populations

Certain groups may require special consideration when it comes to DVT prevention and treatment:

• Pregnant women
• Cancer patients
• Elderly individuals
• Athletes
• Individuals with genetic clotting disorders

How do treatment approaches differ for these groups? Healthcare providers must carefully balance the risks and benefits of various treatments, considering factors such as medication interactions, bleeding risks, and the impact on overall health.

The Economic Impact of DVT

Beyond its health implications, DVT can have significant economic consequences:

• Healthcare costs for treatment and hospitalization
• Lost productivity due to illness and recovery
• Long-term care expenses for those with chronic complications

Does investing in prevention make economic sense? Indeed, focusing on prevention strategies and early intervention can significantly reduce the overall economic burden of DVT on individuals and healthcare systems.

Global Perspectives on DVT

DVT is a global health concern, but its prevalence and management can vary across different regions:

• Differences in risk factors among populations
• Variations in healthcare access and treatment approaches
• Cultural factors influencing prevention and management strategies

How can global collaboration improve DVT outcomes? Sharing research, best practices, and resources across borders can lead to more effective prevention and treatment strategies worldwide.

The Psychological Impact of DVT

Living with DVT or recovering from its effects can have significant psychological implications:

• Anxiety about recurrence or complications
• Depression related to lifestyle changes or chronic symptoms
• Stress from ongoing medical management

How can patients cope with the psychological aspects of DVT? Support groups, counseling, and open communication with healthcare providers can play crucial roles in managing the emotional impact of DVT.

Emerging Trends in DVT Research

As our understanding of DVT evolves, several exciting research areas are emerging:

• Gene therapy for preventing clot formation
• Nanotechnology for targeted drug delivery
• Biomarkers for personalized risk assessment
• Novel imaging techniques for more precise diagnosis

How might these advancements shape the future of DVT care? These innovative approaches hold the potential to revolutionize how we prevent, diagnose, and treat DVT, potentially leading to better outcomes and quality of life for patients.

The Role of Patient Education in DVT Management

Empowering patients with knowledge is crucial for effective DVT management:

• Understanding risk factors and warning signs
• Proper use of medications and compression stockings
• Importance of follow-up care and lifestyle modifications
• Recognizing and responding to potential complications

How can healthcare providers enhance patient education efforts? Utilizing diverse educational tools, including digital resources, interactive sessions, and printed materials, can help ensure patients are well-informed and actively engaged in their care.

In conclusion, deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition that requires attention, prevention, and proper management. By understanding its causes, recognizing symptoms, and following appropriate treatment and prevention strategies, individuals can significantly reduce their risk and improve outcomes. As research continues to advance, we can look forward to even more effective ways to combat this potentially life-threatening condition.

Deep vein thrombosis Information | Mount Sinai

DVT; Blood clot in the legs; Thromboembolism; Post-phlebitic syndrome; Post-thrombotic syndrome; Venous – DVT

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein deep inside a part of the body. It mainly affects the large veins in the lower leg and thigh, but can occur in other deep veins, such as in the arms and pelvis.

This picture shows a red and swollen thigh and leg caused by a blood clot (thrombus) in the deep veins in the groin (iliofemoral veins) which prevents normal return of blood from the leg to the heart.

Veins in the extremities carry blood to the heart and lungs, where the blood is oxygenated. As the blood returns to the heart from the lungs, the arteries carry the oxygen-rich blood out to the body.

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) affects mainly the veins in the lower leg and the thigh. It involves the formation of a clot (thrombus) in the larger veins of the area.

Veins in the extremities carry blood to the heart and lungs, where the blood is oxygenated. As the blood returns to the heart from the lungs, the arteries carry the oxygen-rich blood out to the body.

Veins carry blood back to the heart from the tissues. Blood flowing in the veins is under lower pressure and moves more slowly than blood flowing in the arteries. Blood is therefore more likely to clot in the veins, thus blocking the flow through the veins.

Causes

DVT is most common in adults over age 60. But it can occur at any age. When a clot breaks off and moves through the bloodstream, it is called an embolism. An embolism can get stuck in the blood vessels in the brain, lungs, heart, or another area, leading to severe damage.

Blood clots may form when something slows or changes the flow of blood in the veins. Risk factors include:

• A pacemaker catheter that has been passed through the vein in the groin
• Bed rest or sitting in one position for too long, such as plane travel
• Family history of blood clots
• Fractures in the pelvis or legs
• Giving birth within the last 6 months
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Recent surgery (most commonly hip, knee, or female pelvic surgery)
• Too many blood cells being made by the bone marrow, causing the blood to be thicker than normal (polycythemia vera)
• Having an indwelling (long-term) catheter in a blood vessel

Blood is more likely to clot in someone who has certain problems or disorders, such as:

• Cancer
• Certain autoimmune disorders, such as lupus
• Cigarette smoking
• Conditions that make it more likely to develop blood clots
• Taking estrogens or birth control pills (this risk is even higher with smoking)

Sitting for long periods when traveling can increase the risk for DVT. This is most likely when you also have one or more of the risk factors listed above.

Symptoms

DVT mainly affects the large veins in the lower leg and thigh, most often on one side of the body. The clot can block blood flow and cause:

• Changes in skin color (redness)
• Leg pain
• Leg swelling (edema)
• Skin that feels warm to the touch

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider will perform a physical exam. The exam may show a red, swollen, or tender leg.

The two tests that are often done first to diagnose a DVT are:

• D-dimer blood test
• Doppler ultrasound exam of the area of concern

A pelvic MRI may be done if the blood clot is in the pelvis, such as after pregnancy.

Blood tests may be done to check if you have an increased chance of blood clotting, including:

• Activated protein C resistance (checks for the Factor V Leiden mutation)
• Antithrombin III levels
• Antiphospholipid antibodies
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Genetic testing to look for mutations that make you more likely to develop blood clots, such as the prothrombin G20210A mutation
• Lupus anticoagulant
• Protein C and protein S levels

Treatment

Your provider will give you medicine to thin your blood (called an anticoagulant). This will keep more clots from forming or old ones from getting bigger.

Heparin is often the first medicine you will receive.

• If heparin is given through a vein (IV), you must stay in the hospital. However, most people can be treated without staying in the hospital.
• Low molecular weight heparin can be given by injection under your skin once or twice a day. You may not need to stay in the hospital as long, or at all, if you are prescribed this type of heparin.

One type of blood-thinning medicine called warfarin (Coumadin or Jantoven) may be started along with heparin. Warfarin is taken by mouth. It takes several days to fully work.

Another class of blood thinners works differently than warfarin. Examples of this class of medicines, called direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC), include:

• Rivaroxaban (Xarelto)
• Apixaban (Eliquis)
• Dabigatran (Pradaxa)
• Edoxaban (Savaysa)

These drugs work in a similar way to heparin and can be used right away in place of heparin. Your provider will decide which medicine is right for you.

You will most likely take a blood thinner for at least 3 months. Some people take it longer, or even for the rest of their lives, depending on their risk for another clot.

When you are taking a blood thinning medicine, you are more likely to bleed, even from activities you have always done. If you are taking a blood thinner at home:

• Take the medicine just the way your provider prescribed it.
• Ask the provider what to do if you miss a dose.
• Get blood tests as advised by your provider to make sure you are taking the right dose. These tests are usually needed with people who are taking warfarin.
• Learn how to take other medicines and when to eat.
• Find out how to watch for problems caused by the medicine.

In rare cases, you may need surgery instead of or in addition to anticoagulants. Surgery may involve:

• Placing a filter in the body’s largest vein to prevent blood clots from traveling to the lungs
• Removing a large blood clot from the vein or injecting clot-busting medicines

Follow any other instructions you are given to treat your DVT.

Outlook (Prognosis)

DVT often goes away without a problem, but the condition can return. The symptoms can appear right away or you may not develop them for 1 or more years afterward. Wearing compression stockings during and after the DVT may help prevent this problem.

Possible Complications

Complications of DVT may include:

• Fatal pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the thigh are more likely to break off and travel to the lungs than blood clots in the lower leg or other parts of the body)
• Constant pain and swelling (post-phlebitic or post-thrombotic syndrome)
• Varicose veins
• Non-healing ulcers (less common)
• Changes in skin color

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider if you have symptoms of DVT.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have DVT and you develop:

• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• Difficulty breathing
• Fainting
• Loss of consciousness
• Other severe symptoms

Prevention

To prevent DVT:

• Move your legs often during long plane trips, car trips, and other situations in which you are sitting or lying down for long periods.
• Take blood-thinning medicines your provider prescribes.
• DO NOT smoke. Talk to your provider if you need help quitting.

Kabrhel C. Pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis. In: Walls RM, Hockberger RS, Gausche-Hill M, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 74.

Lockhart ME, Umphrey HR, Weber TM, Robbin ML. Peripheral vessels. In: Rumack CM, Levine D, eds. Diagnostic Ultrasound. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 27.

Siegal D, Lim W. Venous thromboembolism. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Silberstein LE, et al, eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 142.

Stevens SM, Woller SC, Kreuziger LB, et al. Antithrombotic therapy for VTE disease: second update of the CHEST guideline and expert panel report. Chest. 2021 Dec;160(6):e545-e608. Epub 2021 Aug 2. PMID: 34352278. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34352278/.

Last reviewed on: 1/25/2022

Reviewed by: Todd Gersten, MD, Hematology/Oncology, Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, Wellington, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Causes, Warning Signs, Treatment, and Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Written by Dean Shaban

Medically Reviewed by Poonam Sachdev on June 14, 2023

• What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?
• DVT Symptoms
• DVT Causes
• DVT Risk Factors
• DVT Tests and Diagnosis
• DVT Progression
• DVT Treatment
• DVT Health Disparities
• DVT Complications
• Living With DVT
• DVT Prognosis
• Can I Prevent DVT?
• Takeaways
• More

If blood moves too slowly through your veins, it can cause a clump of blood cells called a clot. When a blood clot forms in a vein deep inside your body, it causes what doctors call deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This is most likely to happen in your lower leg, thigh, or pelvis. But it can occur in other parts of your body, too.

DVT can lead to major health problems. In some cases, it can be fatal. That’s why if you think you have one, you must see a doctor right away.

Not everyone with DVT shows symptoms. But you might notice any of the following:

• Leg or arm swelling that comes on without warning
• Pain or soreness when you stand or walk
• Warmth in the area that hurts
• Enlarged veins
• Skin that looks red or blue

If a blood clot breaks free and moves through your bloodstream, it can get stuck in a blood vessel of your lung. Doctors call this a pulmonary embolism, or PE. It can be fatal.

Some people don’t know they have DVT until this happens. Signs of PE include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain that’s worse when you take a deep breath
• Coughing up blood
• Higher heart rate

Learn more about DVT symptoms

The causes of DVT include things that keep blood from:

• Flowing through your leg, thigh, or pelvis
• Clotting correctly

This usually happens as a result of damage to one of your veins due to:

• Surgery
• Inflammation
• Infection
• Injury

Many things can raise your chances of getting DVT. Here are some of the most common:

• Age. DVT can happen at any age, but your risk is greater after age 40.
• Sitting for long periods. When you sit for long stretches of time, the muscles in your lower legs stay still. This makes it hard for blood to circulate, or move around, the way it should. Long flights or car rides can put you at risk.
• Bed rest. When you’re in the hospital for a long time, this can also keep your muscles still and raise your odds of DVT.
• Pregnancy. Carrying a baby puts more pressure on the veins in your legs and pelvis. What’s more, a clot can happen up to 6 weeks after you give birth.
• Obesity. People with obesity – that’s a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher – are at a higher risk. BMI measures how healthy your weight is based on how tall you are.
• Serious health issues. Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, and heart disease can all raise your risk.
• Certain inherited blood disorders. Some diseases that run in families can make your blood thicker than normal or cause it to clot more than it should.
• Injury to a vein. This could result from a broken bone, surgery, or other trauma.
• Smoking . This makes blood cells stickier than they should be. It also harms the lining of your blood vessels. This makes it easier for clots to form.
• Birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy. The estrogen in these raises your blood’s ability to clot. (Progesterone-only pills don’t have the same risk.)
• Infection. When in your blood, veins, or elsewhere, it could lead to DVT.
• Inflammation. This could be due to infection, surgery, injury, or some other root cause.
• High cholesterol.

In some cases, neither the cause nor the symptoms of DVT are very clear, so tell your doctor about any changes you notice if you are at higher risk for DVT.

How many people get DVT? 

DVT symptoms can be hard to find and often go unnoticed. So it’s hard to estimate the number of diagnoses . But it’s thought that about 8 in every 10,000 people get DVT every year. And lower-leg DVT happens  in every 1 in 1,000 people. But these numbers actually could be higher.

Your doctor will first do a physical exam of your leg and lower body areas to check for symptoms. If there is any swelling, tenderness, or change in skin color, they will likely want to run some tests to see if you have DVT. Such tests include:

• Duplex ultrasound. This is the standard test for DVT. Your doctor will run an ultrasound to scan parts of your body for clots in your veins. An ultrasound scanner sends sound waves to create images showing how blood flows through your veins.  If your doctor finds a clot, they may want you to come back for more ultrasounds to see if it has grown or if there are any new ones.
• D-dimer blood test. Most people with bad DVT will have D-dimer in their blood, It’s a type of protein that comes from blood clots. Your doctor will do a blood test to see whether you have high levels of D-dimer.
• MRI. MRIs are usually done for DVT in the lower abdomen or belly area. They are not standard for the more common forms of DVT.
• Venography. This test is rarely done because it is so invasive. Your doctor will inject dye in your veins and take an X-ray to see if the dye is flowing properly through your veins. It can let your doctor to see if you have any clots. Other tests, like an ultrasound, are done first.

Find out more about DVT tests and diagnosis

DVT can progress as your symptoms get worse. Signs of acute DVT include: 

• Pain in your leg or arm. It could be swollen and feel warmer than it normally does. 
• You may notice a change in skin color. It might be red. If you have a darker skin tone, this may be harder to see. 
• A bad headache that can come on suddenly. You might also have seizures.
• Bad belly pain (if blood clots are in your abdomen)

If you are breathless or have chest pain, this can be a bad progression in your DVT. You might feel lightheaded or faint. If this happens, you need medical care right away. These could be signs of a pulmonary embolism (PE), when the clot is going into your lungs. PE can be fatal if it’s not caught early enough.

Your doctor will want to stop the blood clot from getting bigger or breaking off and heading toward your lungs. They’ll also want to cut your chances of getting another DVT.

This can be done in one of three ways:

Medications for DVT

Blood thinners are the most common medications used to treat DVT. They cut your blood’s ability to clot. You may need to take them for 6 months. If your symptoms are severe or your clot is very large, your doctor may give you a strong medicine to dissolve it. These medications, called thrombolytics, have serious side effects like sudden bleeding. That’s why they’re not prescribed very often.

Procedure for DVT

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filter. If you can’t take a blood thinner or if one doesn’t help, your doctor may insert a small, cone-shaped filter inside your inferior vena cava. That’s the largest vein in your body. The filter can catch a large clot before it reaches your lungs.

Home remedies for DVT

Compression stockings. These special socks are very tight at the ankle and get looser as they reach your knee. This pressure prevents blood from pooling in your veins. You can buy some types at the drugstore. But your doctor might prescribe a stronger version that an expert can fit for you.

Know more about the latest DVT treatments

Research shows that Black people are more likely to have DVT than White people. But they’re just as likely or less likely to have PE. 

Studies show that people with what’s known as “metabolic syndrome” are at greater risk of having a DVT event. Metabolic syndrome is a condition linked to a group of other conditions, such as obesity, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

Black people, and especially Black women, tend to have metabolic syndrome more often than people of other racial groups. This can increase their chances of having DVT.

Up to half of people with DVT will have long-term complications because of damage to the leg vein (post-thrombotic syndrome) where blood remains too long (chronic venous insufficiency). You may notice pain, swelling, and redness, which can lead to open sores if you don’t get early treatment. In time, this can make it harder to do daily activities and even walk.

The biggest worry for a blood clot is a DVT that breaks off and causes a pulmonary embolism (see above). If the clot isn’t too big and you get the right treatment fast enough, you may recover from this, though there may be some long-term lung damage.

About a third of people who have had a DVT or PE have a higher risk of another incident.

Living with DVT can be very manageable if you stick to a good routine, eat well, and budget enough for out-of-pocket costs. It’s also important to stay aware of your mental well-being during and after a DVT.

DVT diet

While it is always good to stick to a well-balanced diet, healthy eating is especially important if you have DVT. Inflammation is known to make the risk of blood clots higher. Here are some tips for eating to lower inflammation:

• Try to include plant-based foods like fruits, veggies, nuts, and whole grains.
• Olive oil and canola oil are good subs for butter.
• If you’re going to flavor your food, try herbs and spices instead of salt.
• Red meat is fine, but try to keep it to no more than two to three times a month.
• It’s good to eat fish at least twice a week.

DVT costs

Research shows that people with DVT lose, on average, 57 short-term disability days at work and 440 long-term disability days. The out-of-pocket cost per year is about $2,500, including medical and pharmacy expenses. It may be more or less, depending on your insurance or if you are uninsured.

Managing DVT

After a DVT, you can slowly get back to your normal activities. 

• If you sit for a while, it’s good to stand up and walk for a few minutes every hour. This is especially true for road trips or long flights.
• If you’re sitting for a long time (like at work), exercise your calf muscles.
• Always wear compression socks as prescribed by your doctor. This will help with swelling.
• Try not to do anything that could cause a serious injury.
• Drink plenty of water.

DVT and mental health

The trauma of going through a blood clot can cause mental health issues for you. These may include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

If you have or think you may be having any of these or other mental health conditions as a result of your DVT, reach out to a mental health professional for one-on-one or group therapy.

Since a DVT can take up to a year to break apart, your doctor will likely want to do more ultrasounds after the first one to see if it has spread or gotten worse. 

Always take your blood thinners as prescribed and wear compression socks until your doctor tells you it’s OK to stop. You might need more blood tests to check that you have the right dosage of medications as your DVT gets better or worse.

Can DVT be cured?

Yes. With the proper treatment and attention, your blood clot can come apart over time.

Simple lifestyle changes may help lower your odds of getting one. Try these simple tips to keep your blood circulating the way it should:

• Take care of yourself. Stop smoking, lose weight, and try to be active.
• Get regular checkups. And if your doctor has prescribed a medicine to control a health problem, take it as directed.
• Don’t sit for too long. If you’re traveling for 4 hours or more, take breaks to flex and stretch your lower leg muscles. If you’re on a flight, walk up and down the aisle every hour. On long car drives, pull over every 2 hours to stretch. Wear loose-fitting clothes, and drink plenty of water.
• Plan surgery after-care. Talk to your doctor about what you can do to prevent DVT after surgery. They might suggest you wear compression stockings or take blood thinners. You’ll also want to get out of bed and start moving around.

Deep vein thrombosis can be managed  and go away if your doctor finds and treats it early enough. With a healthy diet, meds, compression socks, and enough exercise, you can live a full life during and after your DVT. Talk to your doctor right away if you think you might have DVT.

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Signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis

• July 13, 2021

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more deep veins in your body, usually in your legs. Deep vein thrombosis can cause leg pain or swelling, but may be asymptomatic.

• Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis
• Causes of deep vein thrombosis
• Risk factors
• DVT complications
• Prevention of thrombosis

DVT may be associated with diseases that affect the blood clotting process. A blood clot in your legs can also form if you don’t move for a long time, such as after surgery or an accident. But walking extremely long distances can lead to blood clots.

Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition because blood clots in your veins can travel through your bloodstream and get stuck in your lungs, blocking blood flow (pulmonary embolism). However, pulmonary embolism may occur without evidence of DVT.

When DVT and pulmonary embolism occur at the same time, it is called venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of DVT:

• Swelling of the affected leg. In rare cases, swelling appears on both legs.
• Pain in the leg. The pain often starts in the calf and may feel like spasms or soreness.
• Red or discolored skin on the leg.
• Sensation of warmth in the affected leg.

Deep vein thrombosis may occur without noticeable symptoms.

When to see a doctor

If you have signs or symptoms of DVT, see your doctor.

If you have signs or symptoms of pulmonary embolism (PE), a life-threatening complication of deep vein thrombosis, seek emergency medical attention.

Call 103

Warning signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism include:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort that is aggravated by taking a deep breath or coughing.
• Feeling dizzy or dizzy or fainting
• Rapid pulse
• Fast breathing
• Cough with blood

Suspect deep vein thrombosis? Contact the professionals.

Causes

Anything that interferes with the normal flow or clotting of blood can cause blood clots.

The main causes of DVT are damage to the vein from surgery or trauma, and inflammation from infection or trauma.

Risk factors

Many factors can increase the risk of developing DVT, which include:

• Age. The risk of DVT increases at age 60, although it can occur at any age.
• Sitting for long periods of time, such as while driving or flying. When your legs remain motionless for several hours, your calf muscles do not contract. Muscle contractions promote blood circulation.
• Prolonged bed rest, such as during a long hospital stay or paralysis. Blood clots can form in the calves if the calf muscles are not used for a long time.
• Injury or surgery. Injury to the veins or surgery may increase the risk of blood clots.
• Pregnancy. Pregnancy increases pressure in the veins of the pelvis and legs. Women with an inherited bleeding disorder are at particular risk. The risk of blood clots as a result of pregnancy may remain up to six weeks after the baby is born.
• Contraceptive pills (oral contraceptives) or hormone replacement therapy. Both factors can increase the ability of the blood to clot.
• Exposure to drugs or chemicals. Certain drugs can cause blood clots. Before use, consult your doctor.
• Overweight or obese. Excess weight increases pressure in the veins of the pelvis and legs.
• Smoking. Smoking affects clotting and circulation, which may increase the risk of DVT.
• Cancer. Some forms of cancer increase blood levels of substances that cause blood clotting. Some forms of cancer treatment also increase the risk of blood clots.
• Heart failure. Increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Because people with heart failure have limited heart and lung function, symptoms caused by even a small pulmonary embolism are more noticeable.
• Inflammatory bowel disease. Bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis increases the risk of DVT.
• Personal or family history of DVT or PE. If you or someone in your family has had one or both of these, you may be at greater risk of developing DVT.
• Genetics. Some people inherit genetic risk factors or disorders, such as factor V Leiden, that make their blood clot more easily. The hereditary disease itself may not cause blood clots unless it is combined with one or more other risk factors.
• Risk factor unknown. Sometimes a blood clot in a vein can occur without an obvious underlying risk factor. This is called unprovoked VTE.

Complications

Complications of DVT may include:

• Pulmonary embolism (PE). PE is a potentially life-threatening complication associated with DVT. This happens when a blood vessel in your lung is blocked by a clot that travels to your lung from another part of your body, usually your leg.
  If you have signs and symptoms of PE, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain when inhaling or coughing, rapid breathing, rapid pulse, feeling weak or faint, and coughing up blood can occur with PE.
• Post-phlebitic syndrome. Damage to a vein by a thrombus reduces blood flow to the affected areas, causing leg pain and swelling, skin discoloration, and skin ulcers.
• Complications of treatment. Complications may arise from blood thinners used to treat DVT. Bleeding is a side effect of anticoagulants. It is important to have regular blood tests while taking these medications.

Prophylaxis

Measures to prevent deep vein thrombosis include the following:

• Don’t sit still. If you have had surgery or otherwise been on bed rest, try to get back to work as soon as possible. If you are sitting for a while, do not cross your legs as this can block blood flow. If you are traveling long distances by car, stop about every hour and take a walk.
  If you are on an airplane, stand or walk from time to time. If you can’t do this, stretch your shins. Do some exercises. Try raising and lowering your heels while keeping your toes on the floor, then lift your toes while resting your heels on the floor.
• Do not smoke. Smoking increases the risk of developing DVT.
• Exercise and control your weight. Obesity is a risk factor for DVT. Regular exercise reduces the risk of blood clots, which is especially important for people who sit a lot or travel frequently.

16 Department of Vascular Surgery

Updated by experts. Last edited: July 13, 2021

symptoms, causes, treatment of thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities, arteries (deep / superficial) – Department of Phlebology – NCC No. 2 (Central Clinical Hospital of the Russian Academy of Sciences) in Moscow

What is it?

Thrombosis is a pathological condition in which dense blood clots (thrombi) form in the vessels, slowing down or completely stopping the normal flow of blood. As a result, there may be a lack of nutrition of organs (ischemia), which in turn can lead to tissue death (necrosis, infarction) and death. There are two types of thrombosis: venous and arterial. From the names it is clear where the formation of blood clots occurs. In the first case – in the veins, in the second – in the arteries. The disease can occur in acute and chronic form. Arterial thrombosis is the most dangerous.

Main causes

There are three main factors for thrombus formation.

1. Damage to the vessel wall (as a result of trauma, surgery and malnutrition (cholesterol plaques form), infection, heavy lifting, childbirth, etc.).
2. Blood clotting disorder (tendency to increased clotting). Changes in blood clotting may occur due to metabolic disorders or hormonal imbalances.
3. Blood stasis . Occurs when a person remains motionless for a long time in one position (for example, in front of a computer, in an airplane seat or chained to a bed).

The risk group can also include people with varicose veins who are overweight, bad habits, leading a passive lifestyle, as well as people over 60 years old.

Symptoms of thrombosis

For arterial thrombosis, the following symptoms are characteristic:

• Sharp pain that occurs in one place and spreads to adjacent areas in the form of a pulsating stream
• Feeling of numbness of the extremities depending on the location of the thrombus, as a result of which they lose sensation and become cold
• Shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, chest tightness (with blockage of the pulmonary artery)
• Dizziness, speech disorder (with blockage of cerebral arteries)

At venous thrombosis is observed:

• Increasing pain in the affected area
• Swelling and thickening of the veins at the location of the thrombus
• The color of the skin in this place becomes blue
• Swelling and bulging of superficial veins.

Disease diagnosis

When contacting a medical institution, the doctor diagnoses and prescribes treatment. Main diagnostic methods:

• Blood clotting tests
• Magnetic resonance phlebography
• Duplex/triplex scanning of lower limb arteries
• Duplex/triplex lower extremity vein scanning
• Duplex/triplex scanning of extracranial brachiocephalic arteries
• Duplex/triplex scanning of intracranial brachiocephalic arteries
• Duplex/triplex scanning of arteries and veins of the upper extremities
• Ascending phlebography with contrast agent
• Radionuclide thrombus location scan
• Thromboelastography.

Professionals to contact:

• Phlebologist
• Vascular surgeon
• Cardiologist
• Neurologist and others

Treatment

Depending on the severity of the disease, conservative and surgical treatment is possible.