What are the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis. How can you prevent blood clots in legs. What causes venous thromboembolism. Who is at risk for developing leg clots. How are blood clots in the legs treated. What are the dangers of pulmonary embolism. How can you reduce your risk of DVT during travel.

Understanding Venous Thromboembolism: A Silent Threat

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious medical condition that affects hundreds of thousands of Americans each year. It encompasses two related conditions: deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the leg, while PE happens when a clot breaks off and travels to the lungs. These conditions can be life-threatening, with pulmonary embolisms being twice as deadly as heart attacks.

How prevalent is VTE? At least 900,000 Americans are affected annually, resulting in over 100,000 deaths. Despite its severity, many people are unaware of the symptoms or the chronic nature of this condition. Dr. Samuel Z. Goldhaber, a senior cardiologist at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital, emphasizes that VTE is now understood as a chronic illness, similar to diabetes and heart disease, potentially requiring lifelong management.

7 Warning Signs of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Recognizing the symptoms of DVT is crucial for early detection and treatment. Here are the key warning signs to watch out for:

1. Unexplained pain or tenderness in the affected area, typically worsening over time
2. Swelling in the leg or arm
3. Redness of the skin
4. Warmth in the affected area
5. Discoloration of the skin, often bluish or purplish
6. Visible surface veins
7. Leg fatigue or heaviness

If you experience these symptoms, especially if they persist for more than a few hours, it’s essential to seek medical advice promptly.

Pulmonary Embolism: A Potentially Fatal Complication

When a blood clot travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening condition. Recognizing the symptoms of PE is critical for immediate medical intervention. The warning signs include:

• Sudden difficulty breathing
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Chest pain or discomfort, especially when breathing deeply or coughing
• Coughing up blood
• Very low blood pressure
• Lightheadedness or fainting

If you experience any of these symptoms, particularly if they worsen rapidly over a few hours, it’s crucial to call emergency services immediately.

Risk Factors and Causes of Venous Thromboembolism

Understanding the risk factors for VTE can help in prevention and early detection. What increases your likelihood of developing blood clots?

• Age: People over 60 are at higher risk, although VTE can occur at any age
• Recent surgery or hospitalization
• Prolonged immobility, such as during long-distance travel or bed rest
• Cancer and its treatments
• Obesity
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Pregnancy and postpartum period
• Use of hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy
• Family history of blood clots
• Inherited clotting disorders

It’s important to note that between 5% and 8% of people have inherited disorders that make them more prone to clots. If you or a family member has experienced a VTE without an apparent cause, consider discussing genetic testing with your healthcare provider.

Treatment Options for Blood Clots

How are blood clots in the legs treated? The primary approach to treating VTE involves anticoagulation therapy, also known as blood thinners. The treatment typically follows these steps:

1. Initial treatment with injectable anticoagulants like heparin
2. Transition to oral anticoagulants such as rivaroxaban (Xarelto), apixaban (Eliquis), dabigatran (Pradaxa), or edoxaban (Savaysa)
3. In severe cases, thrombolytic therapy (clot-dissolving medications) may be administered intravenously or through a catheter

The duration of anticoagulation therapy varies depending on the individual case. While traditional approaches recommended treatment for three to six months following surgery-related clots, there’s a growing trend towards longer treatment periods due to the chronic nature of VTE. Dr. Goldhaber notes that three in ten people who experience a VTE will have another episode within a decade, highlighting the importance of ongoing management.

Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis: Strategies for Risk Reduction

Prevention is key when it comes to DVT. If you’re scheduled for surgery or confined to bed due to illness or injury, discuss preventive measures with your healthcare provider. What can you do to reduce your risk of developing blood clots?

• Early mobilization after surgery or during bed rest
• Use of compression stockings to promote blood flow
• Prophylactic anticoagulation in high-risk individuals
• Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight
• Staying hydrated, especially during long periods of immobility
• Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption

For those who must sit for extended periods, such as during long-distance travel or at work, the following tips can help prevent DVT:

1. Take regular breaks to walk around every hour or two
2. Perform ankle and knee flexion exercises while seated
3. Avoid crossing your legs for long periods
4. Change positions frequently while seated
5. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water

The Importance of Early Detection and Ongoing Management

Early detection and proper management of VTE are crucial for preventing complications and recurrence. How can you ensure optimal care for this condition?

• Be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention promptly if you suspect DVT or PE
• Follow your healthcare provider’s treatment plan diligently, including taking prescribed medications as directed
• Attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce overall risk factors for VTE
• Educate family members about the signs and symptoms of VTE, especially if you have a history of blood clots

Remember, VTE is a chronic condition that requires ongoing attention and management. By staying informed and proactive, you can significantly reduce your risk of complications and improve your overall health outcomes.

Advancements in VTE Research and Treatment

The field of VTE research is continually evolving, with new insights and treatment options emerging. What are some of the latest developments in VTE management?

• Improved risk assessment tools to identify high-risk individuals
• Development of novel oral anticoagulants with fewer side effects and easier management
• Enhanced imaging techniques for more accurate diagnosis of DVT and PE
• Personalized treatment approaches based on genetic factors and individual risk profiles
• Ongoing research into the long-term effects of VTE and optimal duration of anticoagulation therapy

These advancements offer hope for better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of VTE in the future. As research progresses, it’s likely that we’ll see more targeted and effective strategies for managing this complex condition.

The Role of Lifestyle Modifications in VTE Prevention

While medical interventions are crucial in treating and preventing VTE, lifestyle modifications play a significant role in reducing risk. How can you incorporate these changes into your daily life?

• Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
• Stay active and avoid prolonged periods of inactivity
• Manage underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes
• Consider alternatives to hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy if you’re at high risk for VTE

By adopting these lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing VTE and improve your overall cardiovascular health.

The Impact of VTE on Quality of Life

Venous thromboembolism can have a substantial impact on an individual’s quality of life. How does VTE affect patients beyond the immediate medical concerns?

• Chronic pain and swelling in affected limbs
• Anxiety and depression related to the fear of recurrence
• Limitations in physical activities and daily routines
• Potential long-term complications such as post-thrombotic syndrome
• Financial burden due to ongoing medical care and potential loss of work

Understanding these challenges is essential for providing comprehensive care to VTE patients. Healthcare providers should address not only the physical aspects of the condition but also the psychological and social impacts to ensure holistic patient care.

The Importance of Patient Education in VTE Management

Effective management of VTE relies heavily on patient education and engagement. How can healthcare providers and patients work together to improve outcomes?

• Provide clear, accessible information about VTE, its symptoms, and treatment options
• Encourage patients to actively participate in their care planning and decision-making
• Offer support groups or resources for patients to connect with others experiencing similar challenges
• Utilize digital health tools to track symptoms, medication adherence, and risk factors
• Promote open communication between patients and healthcare providers to address concerns and adjust treatment plans as needed

By empowering patients with knowledge and resources, healthcare providers can foster better adherence to treatment plans and improve overall outcomes in VTE management.

Deep-vein blood clots: Know the signs

Image: Thinkstock

Clots in the lungs are twice as deadly as heart attacks.

If you scrape your leg, blood clots come to the rescue to heal the wound. But if a blood clot forms deep inside a leg vein, it’s a different story. Known as a venous thrombosis—a term meaning “blood clot in a vein”—this type of clot can cause pain, swelling, and redness in the affected limb. When one forms in a leg or arm, it’s called deep-vein thrombosis (DVT). But the real threat happens if the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.

One or both of these conditions strike at least 900,000 Americans each year, killing over 100,000. But many Americans don’t recognize the symptoms (see boxes) or the serious nature of venous thromboembolism, or VTE. Pulmonary embolisms are twice as deadly as heart attacks.

Until recently, doctors thought of VTE as a short-lived condition that could be successfully treated with a brief course of anti-clotting drugs. “We now understand that it’s a chronic illness—similar to diabetes and heart disease—that may require lifelong management,” says Dr. Samuel Z. Goldhaber, senior cardiologist at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital. In fact, the same factors that make people more likely to have heart disease, such as high blood pressure, smoking, and obesity, also make them more susceptible to a VTE. Most occur in people ages 60 or older, but younger people can get them, too.

Common causes

Damage to a blood vessel, from either an injury or surgery, can provoke a blood clot. Being confined to bed during the recovery period leads to sluggish blood flow, further increasing the risk. More than half of VTEs are related to a recent hospital stay or surgery, but most don’t occur until after you’ve left the hospital. Undergoing treatment for cancer also raises your risk. So can prolonged sitting during long-distance travel.

Between 5% and 8% of people have one of several inherited disorders that make them more prone to clots. If you or a family member has suffered a VTE, ask your doctor about family testing for clotting disorders, which might be considered if there was no other explanation for the clots.

Treatment for clots

Treating a VTE typically includes injections of an anti-clotting drug such as heparin, followed by drugs such as rivaroxaban (Xarelto), apixaban (Eliquis), dabigatran (Pradaxa), or edoxaban (Savaysa), which are taken in pill form. People with less serious cases may need only oral drugs, while more serious cases may require clot-dissolving medications given through an intravenous (IV) line or through a thin, flexible tube (catheter), which is done in a hospital.

How long you stay on the anti-clotting drugs depends on your situation. When a clot develops after surgery, doctors often recommend staying on the drug for three to six months. But there’s an increasing trend to keep people on the medications for longer time periods, in part because of the chronic nature of the problem, says Dr. Goldhaber. Three in 10 people who have a VTE will have another episode within 10 years.

Preventing DVT

If you’re slated for surgery or are confined to bed because of an illness or injury, talk to your doctor about ways to prevent DVT. For most people, walking as soon as possible after an operation can lower the risk. Doctors sometimes prescribe anti-clotting drugs in high-risk people after surgery. Another option is graduated compression stockings. These knee-high socks apply pressure to the lower legs, with the greatest pressure at the ankle. They gently increase blood flow from the ankle toward the thigh.

If you have to sit for several hours at a time—on a plane, in a train or car, at work, or even at home—the following tips may help prevent DVT:

• Get up and walk around every hour or two.

• While sitting, flex and extend your ankles and knees every once in a while.

• Avoid crossing your legs.

• Change positions often while seated.

• Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

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How to know if you have a blood clot: Symptoms and treatment

Being aware of the signs and symptoms of blood clots can help people seek treatment if they experience them.

Blood clots are semisolid clumps of blood that form in veins or arteries.

A blood clot may be stationary (known as a thrombus) and block the flow of blood. Or, it might break free (known as an embolism) and travel through the body.

Keep reading for more information on the signs and symptoms of blood clots and how a doctor may treat them.

Certain people are at higher risk of developing a blood clot. According to the American Society of Hematology (ASH), factors that increase a person’s risk of developing blood clots include:

• taking oral contraceptives
• immobility, for example, during long hospital stays
• having obesity
• smoking
• being over the age of 60 years
• family history of blood clots
• pregnancy
• previous central line placement
• certain cancers
• trauma
• chronic inflammatory diseases
• diabetes

People at risk for developing blood clots should be aware of the associated signs and symptoms. According to the American Blood Clot Association, symptoms vary depending on the type of blood clot.

DVT symptoms

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a clot that typically occurs in a major vein in the leg, but it can also develop in the pelvis or arm.

DVT may not cause any symptoms, but if symptoms do occur, they can include:

• warmth at the site of the clot
• tenderness or pain in the affected leg or arm
• swelling in the affected leg and foot or arm and hand
• skin turning red or purple

Symptoms are often local to the blood clot and only affect one arm or leg. The National Blood Clot Alliance add that the pain or discomfort of this type of blood clot may be similar to the sensation of a pulled muscle.

Pulmonary embolism

A pulmonary embolism occurs when a clot or part of a clot travels through the veins and ends up in the lungs. This condition can be deadly.

According to the American Blood Clot Association, some common symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include:

• sharp pain in the chest, particularly when taking a deep breath
• a cough that produces blood
• fever
• dizziness
• rapid pulse
• sudden shortness of breath
• unexplained sweating

A person should seek emergency help immediately if they experience any signs of a pulmonary embolism.

Arterial clots

Arterial clots typically produce symptoms quickly because they begin cutting off oxygen to organs faster than other types of blood clots. They can cause various symptoms and complications, including heart attack, stroke, severe pain, and paralysis.

Other locations

Although DVT and pulmonary embolisms are common, blood clots can occur in other areas of the body.

According to the ASH, blood clots in other parts of the body may cause the following symptoms:

• Abdomen: Pain in the abdomen, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Brain: Trouble speaking, weakness in the face or arms, issues with vision, dizziness, or severe headache.
• Heart: Heaviness in the chest, chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, feeling of lightheadedness, or discomfort in the upper body.

The diagnostic process can vary depending on the location of the suspected clot.

A doctor may ask questions about the person’s symptoms and perform a physical examination.

According to the National Blood Clot Alliance, some typical tests include:

• ultrasound, which doctors typically use to diagnose DVT
• venography, which uses a dye to show blood flow in the veins
• MRI scan
• pulmonary angiogram, in which doctors use dye and an X-ray of the chest to determine whether a pulmonary embolism is present

Doctors may use a CT angiography test to check for clots in the head, neck, chest, or abdomen. The test involves the injection of a contrast material into the blood and computer imaging to show blood flow and reveal any clots.

A doctor may order an X-ray of the chest to rule out other possible causes of some pulmonary embolism symptoms, such as pneumonia.

Treating blood clots involves reducing the size of the clot and preventing new clots from forming.

Typical treatments for blood clots include:

• anticoagulant medications called blood thinners, which help prevent new clots and stop existing clots from growing
• thrombolytic therapy to dissolve clots
• compression stockings
• vena cava filters, which are small devices that a surgeon can insert into veins to prevent a clot from traveling to the lungs

A person should talk to their doctor about their treatment options. When using medications, they should take the dosages that their doctor prescribed.

Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can help treat blood clots and prevent further clots from forming. Compression socks are also a helpful preventive measure.

Although not all blood clots are avoidable, a person can take steps to help prevent them. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, these steps include:

• raising the legs 6 inches above the heart on occasion during bed rest
• wearing loose-fitting stockings, clothes, or socks
• staying active and following an exercise regimen
• wearing compression stockings regularly
• limiting salt in the diet as much as possible
• shifting positions frequently when stationary for extended periods
• avoiding sitting or standing for more than 1 hour at a time
• taking all medication as the doctor prescribed
• avoiding placing pillows under the knees
• refraining from crossing the legs
• trying to avoid bumping or injuring the legs

Blood clots can cause serious medical issues. If a blood clot breaks free, it can move to the lungs, heart, or brain, blocking blood flow to these vital organs. A person may experience a stroke or heart attack.

Blood clots are common in pregnancy, often due to limited mobility. If a blood clot occurs during pregnancy, it can lead to complications such as:

• placental insufficiency, which means that the placenta does not provide enough nutrients and oxygen to the fetus
• a blood clot in the placenta, which can cause harm to the fetus
• intrauterine growth restriction, which prevents the fetus from growing properly

These possible complications are in addition to those that are common in all people, including:

• thrombosis or a blockage, such as DVT or cerebral vein thrombosis (CVT), which occurs when the clot forms in the brain
• stroke
• pulmonary embolism
• heart attack
• venous thromboembolism

Blood clots can form almost anywhere in the veins or arteries. If they occur, they can cause complications such as heart attack and stroke.

People should be aware of their risk factors for developing a blood clot, which can include obesity, being stationary for extended periods, and pregnancy.

People should talk to their doctor if they experience symptoms that could be due to a blood clot.

Signs symptoms of blood clots

Along with carrying oxygen throughout your body, your blood protects you by forming clots when you’re injured. But not all blood clots are good. What about blood clots that work against you?

How do blood clots form?

Most blood clots help you heal. But your body may also form clots when they aren’t needed. These blood clots can be broken into two categories: 

• Thrombosis – Stationary clots that don’t travel through your blood vessels
• Embolus – A clot that breaks free and moves through your blood vessels to another part of your body

“Blood clots can form in your arteries or your veins,” says Dr. Gregory Salzler, vascular surgeon at Geisinger Medical Center. And there are several ways that they can form.

“When your blood flows slowly or stops flowing through your veins, blood clots can occur. Varicose veins are also sometimes connected to blood clots. Blood clots related to plaque that builds up in your artery walls — atherosclerosis — can also form when your blood pools in your arteries or heart. This can happen if you have high cholesterol or smoke,” says Dr. Salzler.

Conditions that can develop as a result of blood clots include:

What are the symptoms of blood clots?

While not all symptoms make themselves known, there are still some key signs you can look for to determine whether you may have a blood clot. These symptoms may come on suddenly and get worse quickly.

Symptoms of blood clots include:

• Blue, purple or red tint to skin
• Leg pain
• Swelling in one or both legs
• Warm skin around discoloration

 If a blood clot has moved to your lungs, you may experience:

• Trouble breathing
• Pain when you breathe
• Rapid heartbeat
• Pain in your chest
• Coughing up blood

“You may be at a higher risk of developing a blood clot if you live a sedentary lifestyle, have had an injury, especially to your leg — where clots are most likely to form — or have a family history of blood clots or vascular disease,” says Dr. Salzler. Other risk factors include:

• An unhealthy diet
• Long travel
• Being overweight
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Having diabetes
• Smoking
• Taking certain medications
• Pregnancy

 Treating blood clots

Treatment for blood clots depends on where the clot is located and often includes using catheters to open the blood vessels or arteries, allowing blood to flow freely again. Blood thinners are also given, either as an oral medication or through an IV, to treat clots.

In severe cases, your doctor may perform an endovascular procedure, which is a less invasive procedure that will remove the blood clot to open the blood vessels. Varicose veins are treated with minimally invasive procedures to remove these painful veins.

The key is knowing your risk factors — it can make all the difference in the proper diagnosis and treatment of blood clots and vascular diseases.

“If you have any risk factors, or are experiencing symptoms of blood clots, talk with your doctor,” says Dr. Salzler. “They’ll make sure to come up with a treatment plan to treat your blood clots or vascular disease, and help you know what steps to take to help keep any future clots from forming.”

Next steps:
Make an appointment with Dr. Gregory Salzler, MD
Learn more about vascular disease

What Are the Signs of a Blood Clot?

Depending on where in the body they occur, blood clots can cause a range of symptoms from pain to numbness, from coolness to warmth. These symptoms also won’t be the same in everyone. And sometimes, there won’t be any symptoms at all.

Blood clots in the leg can cause redness or even pale skin. Blood clots in the brain can cause difficulty walking and numbness or weakness on just one side of the body. Blood clots in the lungs can cause sudden shortness of breath, fast heartbeat, and coughing. Blood clots in the abdomen can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Blood clots in the heart can cause chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, sweating, and indigestion.

Blood clots are also different depending if they develop in a vein (venous) or an artery (arterial). Venous clots may take longer to build up, while arterial clots cause symptoms immediately.

It’s important to pay attention to the signs of potential blood clots and to seek treatment as soon as possible because blood clots can be dangerous to your health.

What Are the Signs of a Blood Clot in the Leg or Arm (Deep Vein Thrombosis)?

If a blood clot in the arm or leg is small enough, you may not have any symptoms. With a large clot, your entire leg might swell. The pain may feel like a pulled muscle or a “Charlie horse.”

The most common place for blood clots is the lower leg. It’s unusual to have clots in both arms or both legs at once. So, if you experience symptoms in only one leg or arm, they may indicate a blood clot.

A clot in your arm or leg may not be dangerous there, but it poses a risk of breaking off and lodging in your lungs. This is known as a pulmonary embolism and can be fatal.

Signs of a blood clot in the arm and leg include:

• Pain
• Redness or bluish skin coloration
• Swelling
• Pale color
• Coolness to the touch
• Tenderness
• Increased warmth in the part of the limb that’s swollen or hurting
• Loss of feeling or numbness in the limb

What Are the Signs of a Blood Clot in the Brain?

A blood clot on or in the brain is diagnosed through an MRI or CT scan. A blood clot in the brain can block blood flow, causing a stroke.

But not every blood clot in the brain results in a stroke. And not all strokes are caused by blood clots. About 20 percent of strokes are caused by aneurysms, which are bulges or weakness in the wall of a blood vessel.

Signs of a blood clot on or in the brain include:

• Trouble speaking
• Impaired vision
• Numbness or weakness on one side of the body or face
• Trouble walking
• Inability to think clearly or confusion
• Seizures
• Dizziness
• Severe headache

What Are the Signs of a Blood Clot in the Lungs (Pulmonary Embolism)?

Clots in the veins of the legs or arms can break off and travel to the lung. The resulting pulmonary embolism can cause organ damage or leave to death.

Seniors are at increased risk for pulmonary embolism. This is partly because they are less mobile.

Symptoms of a blood clot in the lungs include:

• Chest pain that may be short and stabbing and may get worse with each breath
• Sudden shortness of breath
• Rapid pulse
• Rapid breathing
• Unexplained coughing possibly with bloody mucus

What Are the Signs of a Blood Clot in the Abdomen?

Blood clots in the lungs can cause sudden shortness of breath, fast heartbeat, and coughing. Blood clots in the abdomen can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Blood clots in the heart can cause chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, sweating, and indigestion.

Researchers in Denmark found that certain abdominal blood clots may be a sign of undiagnosed cancer. Abdominal blood clots may also be more likely in people with medical conditions that cause fluid buildup or swelling in the abdomen.

Abdominal blood clots can cause the following symptoms:

• Abdominal pain (especially if it gets worse after eating or over time)
• Nausea
• Blood in stool
• Bloating
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Buildup of abdominal fluid

What Are the Signs of a Blood Clot in the Coronary Artery?

A blood clot in or near the heart can cause a heart attack, according to the World Heart Federation. Women may have different symptoms of heart attacks than men. Women’s symptoms may be less specific.

Blood clots in the coronary artery cause the following symptoms:

• Extreme chest pain that may radiate to the left part of your jaw, shoulder and arm
• Chest pressure or heaviness
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Indigestion
• Sweating

When to Go to the Doctor for a Blood Clot

See your doctor right away whenever you think you may have symptoms a blood clot. The more quickly it is diagnosed, the better your chances of avoiding permanent harm or death. The diagnosis is usually made using a combination of symptoms, physical examination, and an imaging test.

A doctor may prescribe an anticoagulant, or blood thinner, to prevent new blood clots and keep existing clots from growing. Names of blood thinners include dabigatran (Pradaxa), warfarin (Coumadin), apixaban (Eliquis) and rivaroxaban (Xarelto).

For people who cannot take blood thinners, doctors may recommend an IVC filter. These devices are also used in patients recovering from accidents and surgeries when there is a high risk of potentially fatal lung clots.

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Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) / Blood Clots

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) / Blood Clots

What is a DVT?

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot in a vein, deep in the body. Veins are blood vessels with valves that help blood flow in one direction. When your muscles contract the blood is pushed through the veins in your legs and arms. Blood clots can block the flow of blood through the body. This can cause swelling and other problems in your body. Another concern is that the clot may break lose, travel through the bloodstream and block blood flow in the lungs, heart, or brain.

A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs. The blood clot stops or severely slows the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and the heart. This may cause permanent damage or even death.

What are the causes of a DVT?

Anything that damages the blood vessel can cause the blood to clot. Some things that can damage blood vessels are:

• Smoking
• Not having enough oxygen in the blood
• Having an injury or surgery to your body

Many people with spinal cord injury and brain injury lose some function or movement in their legs and/or arms or are less active than before the injury. Because you aren’t moving around as much, circulation of blood through the body slows down. The slower the blood moves, the higher the risk that a blood clot will form.

Certain situations will make it even harder to move around after spinal cord injury putting you at even greater risk for a blood clot to develop. These situations include being sick, being on bed rest (e.g. skin sore), or sitting in one position for a lengthy period of time (e.g. airline travel).

If you have certain health problems you may have a higher risk that a blood clot will form. Some of these are:

• Family history of a DVT
• Varicose veins
• Cancer
• Heart attack or failure
• Stroke
• Pregnancy
• Taking hormone replacement therapy or birth control medication
• Trauma – fractures or breaks to bones or joints
• Have a port or IV delivering medications directly to your veins
• Sepsis
• Blood disorders
• Obesity or being overweight
• Surgery

What are the symptoms of a DVT?

Typically, blood clots develop in legs and arms. The signs and symptoms of a blood clot or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are:

• Swelling in the limb
• Warmth or coolness on the skin of the affected limb
• Discoloration – red, purple, pale, white, or bluish colors of a leg or arm
• Tenderness or pain in a leg or arm
• Fever and chills
• Increased muscle spasms

The signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism (PE) or blood clot in the lungs are nonspecific and can include:

• Sudden chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Coughing up blood
• Loss of consciousness (fainting)

CALL 911 right away if you have these symptoms or if you think you have an emergency.

How are DVT’s diagnosed?

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history as well as do a physical exam. They may order some tests including blood tests to look for blood clotting proteins. Another common test is a “duplex venous ultrasound” which uses sound waves to detect changes in blood flow. Your doctor may also order a “venography” which is an x-ray taken after dye is injected into a small vein to show areas of normal and abnormal blood flow.

How do you prevent DVTs?

To prevent blood clots and DVTs your doctor may prescribe an anticoagulant, often called a blood thinning medication. Examples of blood thinners are Heparin, Lovenox (Enoxaparin), Fragmin (Dalteparin), Innohep (Tinzaparin), Arixtra (Fondaparinux), and Coumadin (Warfarin). You may be on these for three to six months. Depending on the medication that is ordered, your doctor may order routinely scheduled blood tests. Monitoring these blood tests helps the doctor keep your blood thinner from being too high (which can put you at risk for bleeding) or too low (which can put you at risk for blood clots).

Because blood clots often cause swelling in your legs, for initial rehabilitation, after surgery, or during inpatient upgrade program at Craig Hospital, your legs will be measured every night. Measuring your legs can help early detection of blood clots. Because the risk for blood clots decreases with time after your initial injury, your legs will not have to be measured forever. Talk to your nurse and doctor about how long your legs will be measured and about your risk for developing DVTs.

How do you treat DVT’s?

If you’re diagnosed with a DVT, treatment will begin immediately. The purpose of treatment is to stop the clot from growing and to prevent a pulmonary embolism or stroke.

If you are not already on an anticoagulant or blood thinner you may be started on one. Treatment may last for several months and regularly scheduled blood tests will be ordered to make sure you are getting the right dose.

As their name implies, blood thinners thin your blood making it harder for your body to form a clot. This puts you at increased risk for bleeding if you are injured. You will want to avoid cuts or injury. Report any easy bruising and bleeding, for example if your gums bleed when brushing your teeth.

Maintaining the medication at a certain level is important to work properly. Plan ahead for medication refills so that you don’t run out.

If you are taking blood thinners it is important that you discuss with your doctor all medications, herbal medication, over-the-counter medications, as well as your diet. There are certain foods that affect how blood thinners work, too. Make sure you know what you can and cannot eat. Always check with your doctor before taking a new medication even if you consider the drug safe.

In some cases, a filter may be placed to trap any blood clots that break loose so they don’t travel up to the lungs, brain, and heart. The filter is usually placed in the inferior vena cava which is a major vein in which the blood from your lower body goes back up to the heart. If needed, the filter is usually inserted in a vein through the groin under fluoroscopy. A fluoroscopy is a special type of x-ray that allows the doctor to place the filter easily and without surgery.

You may also have to rest in bed, elevate the affected limb above the heart, and wear compression stockings.

Conclusion

You are an important member of the healthcare team. Know the signs and symptoms of blood clots so that you can talk with your doctors and nurses about what is normal and not normal for you. After all, you know your body better than anyone.

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot in a vein, deep in the body. Injury, decreased movement, and slower blood flow through the body can put people with SCI and TBI at increased risk for DVTs. Medications and physical activity can help prevent them. If they are detected they can be treated.

If you have more questions about DVTs, talk with your doctors and nurses about your specific health concerns and condition.

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Revised: 1/2015

Signs and Symptoms of Blood Clots

Knowing the signs and symptoms of blood clots may mean the difference between life and death for you or someone you know. A blood clot that occurs in a deep vein in your body – usually in the arm or leg – is called deep vein thrombosis or DVT.

Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), or Blood Clot in the Leg or Arm:

• Swelling, often in one limb
• Pain or tenderness, not caused by an injury (sometimes feels like a cramping, or “charley horse”)
• Skin that is warm to the touch
• Changes in your skin color, such as turning white, red, blue or purple

What My DVT Felt Like

At first, I felt like I had pulled a muscle in my calf or was experiencing normal running pain associated with plantar fasciitis. Next, it turned to excruciating pain that extended from the back of my knee down to my ankle whenever I put any amount of weight on it. I was nearly dragging my leg. I have said it previously and I will say it again because it is the only way I can describe it: It felt like someone had the soft, fleshy skin behind my knee in a vice and just kept on tightening. Also, the side of my calf was tender to the touch, but not overly warm, now I know that soreness was primary along the femoral vein. I did not notice any swelling, especially in my lower leg.

You need to know in about half of all cases, deep vein thrombosis occurs without any noticeable symptoms. It is also important to note that a DVT can occur not only in the leg, but the groin, arm, abdomen or other deep vein(s) as well. 

If you have signs or symptoms of DVT, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible, or seek immediate medical attention.

A DVT is dangerous because it can break apart and travel through your bloodstream. A blood clot that travels to the lung is called pulmonary embolism, or PE, and is a life-threatening condition because it can restrict or eliminate blood flow and oxygen to the lung(s). When a DVT and PE occur together, it is known as venous thromboembolism, or VTE.

Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism (PE), or Blood Clot in the Lung:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort, especially if it worsens when you take a deep breath, cough or lie down
• Feeling light headed or dizzy, or fainting
• Fast or irregular heart rate, or a rapid pulse
• Coughing, or coughing up blood
• Some people experience severe anxiety or feel like “something is really wrong”

What My PE Felt Like

At first, I honestly thought this was a really bad side stitch or pulled muscle. Over time, it worsened. A pretty good indicator that it was not a side stitch was that it did not happen while I was running/exercising. As time went on, the pain became nearly unbearable and not only that, it became hard to breath. I could not lie down at all – the pain was excruciating. I never really felt chest pains, but I did feel like someone was stabbing me in the side with a sharp object or jamming their thumb into my ribs. My breathing became shallow and I could only say two or three words at a time. The best indicator? I could not draw in a deep breath – very similar to when you are trying to catch your breath during a hard or hot run, but it doesn’t go away with rest or pain medications.

If you have signs or symptoms of PE, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Excessive Blood Clotting (Hypercoagulation)

Many factors can lead to excessive blood clotting, causing limited or blocked blood flow and can be life-threatening. Signs and symptoms of excessive blood clotting depend on where the clots form.

• A blood clot in the heart or lungs could include symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and upper body discomfort in the arms, back, neck, or jaw, suggesting a heart attack or pulmonary embolism (PE).
• A blood clot in the brain could cause headaches, speech changes, paralysis (an inability to move), dizziness, and trouble speaking or understanding speech, suggesting a possible stroke.
• A blood clot in the deep veins of the leg may create symptoms such as pain, redness, warmth, and swelling in the lower leg, and could suggest deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or peripheral artery disease (PAD).  If you have signs or symptoms of a heart attack, PE or stroke, call 911 right away. If you have signs or symptoms of DVT, call your doctor right away. The cause of the blood clot needs to be found and treated as soon as possible.

Diagnosis

If your healthcare provider thinks that you have excessive blood clotting, he or she will look for the cause of the condition by doing a physical exam.

Medical and family histories will also be reviewed in case you have a blood relative who has had the following:

• Relatives with abnormal or excessive clotting
• A history of repeated blood clots before age 40
• Blood clots during pregnancy or while on birth control pills
• Unexplained miscarriages
• A history of excessive or unusual blood clots (such as in the veins in the liver or kidneys)

Blood work will also be reviewed. Initial blood tests will include a complete blood count and a platelet count. These tests measure the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your blood. In this situation, your doctor will want to know the number of platelets in your blood. Platelets are blood cell fragments that stick together to form clots.

Your doctor may choose to do additional blood tests if more information is needed.

90,000 Deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities Causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis

Contents:

1. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – what is it?
2. Deep vein thrombosis is dangerous!
3. Deep vein thrombosis with varicose veins
4. Deep vein thrombosis – causes of DVT
5. Risk groups for deep vein thrombosis
6. What symptoms develop with deep vein thrombosis
7. Deep vein thrombosis – diagnosis
8. Surgical methods for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis
9. Deep vein thrombosis – treatment in Moscow
10. Deep vein thrombosis – conservative treatment
11. Deep vein thrombosis drug treatment
12. Diet for deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities
13. Deep vein thrombosis – home treatment
14. Prevention of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities
15. Deep vein thrombosis – reviews of our patients
16. Frequently asked questions from our patients on the Internet about deep vein thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) – what is it?

Deep vein thrombosis is a disease in which blood clots (thrombi) form in the lumen of the deep veins. The lower limbs are most often affected.

Mechanism of development of deep vein thrombosis

With the development of the disease, the health of the deep vessels is threatened. If treatment is not prescribed on time, there can be serious consequences.

Deep vein thrombosis is dangerous!

This is what the glomerular vein thrombosis of the lower extremities looks like

Due to the formation of blood clots, the normal blood flow is disturbed, and this leads to a blockage of blood vessels.With such disorders, tissue necrosis can occur in some areas of the body. In the worst case, the resulting blood clots break off and enter the heart or lung. In such cases, due to thromboembolism of the artery of the lung, the person dies.

Deep vein thrombosis – Wikipedia says …

DVT is considered a pathological condition characterized by the formation of blood clots in the deep vein cavity. This disease is observed in 10-20% of the total population. 3-15% of people who do not receive proper treatment die from pulmonary embolism.

Deep vein thrombosis with varicose veins

Very often, deep vein thrombosis becomes a complication of varicose veins.

Deep vein thrombosis is often a complication of varicose veins

The severity of the disease will depend on the location of the thrombus and its size. If a complete blockage of the vessel does not occur, symptoms of the disease may be completely absent.

Deep vein thrombosis – causes of DVT

Deep vein thrombosis most often occurs when several factors are combined:

• for blood clotting disorders;
• when blood flow is slowed down;
• for damage to the vascular walls.

There are risk factors that provoke the occurrence of thrombosis, these are:

90 090

injuries damaging blood vessels.

Groups at risk for deep vein thrombosis

The risk group includes people who have:

• varicose veins transformation;
• sedentary lifestyle;
• operations were performed on the limbs, as well as in the pelvis and abdomen;
• had fractures of the leg bones;
• there are tumors in the abdominal cavity, pelvis and retroperitoneal space;
• dyshormonal state of the endocrine or reproductive system;
• Positional Compression Syndrome.

What symptoms develop with deep vein thrombosis

As a rule, symptoms do not appear immediately, only in the case of an increase in the blood clot. If there is a separation of the clot, shortness of breath, chest pain, hemoptysis may occur.

You can recognize the development of the disease by the following symptoms:

• swelling of the legs;
• bluish skin tone;
• pain when moving.

The main symptom of deep vein thrombosis is leg pain!

If you have these signs, you most likely have deep vein thrombosis.The stages or variants of the course determine the method of treatment.

Deep vein thrombosis – diagnosis

The main method for diagnosing deep vein thrombosis today is ultrasound duplex scanning. With ultrasound, it is possible to determine the location of the thrombus, its size, condition (it is attached to the walls of the vein or dangles in the lumen – it floats).

Dr. Malakhov A.M. conducts ultrasound diagnostics of deep veins of the lower extremities

Phlebography and radionuclide scanning are also prescribed to assess venous blood flow.The state of microcirculation is assessed based on the data of rheovasography.

Surgical methods for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis

If a patient has a severe form of thrombosis of the lower extremities, the most effective method of treatment, surgical intervention, is thrombolysis. A timely operation makes it possible to restore full blood flow, if the diagnosis is deep vein thrombosis. Only a timely intervention can completely cure the patient from this serious condition.Thrombolysis is performed only in an inpatient setting and by highly experienced endovascular surgeons. Treatment after surgery is also aimed at the same goal – resorption of blood clots.

In addition to thrombolysis, there are two more surgical methods for treating deep vein thrombosis – thrombectomy with angioplasty and installation of a thrombus trap – cava filter.

Surgical methods for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis – treatment in Moscow

Modern Moscow medicine offers several methods for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis, the use of which depends on the severity of the disease.In the early stages, thrombolytic drugs can be dispensed with if you have deep vein thrombosis. Treatment (Moscow is a city where there are world luminaries in phlebology) must be very qualified. In the later stages, such therapy is dangerous due to the possible separation of a thrombus and the occurrence of thromboembolism of the pulmonary artery. If severe circulatory disorders and deep vein thrombosis are observed, treatment is an operation (thrombectomy).

Deep vein thrombosis – conservative treatment

With conservative treatment, you can only stop or slow down the progression of the disease.Such therapy can also be prescribed with complex treatment.

Principles of Conservative Therapy:

• compression therapy (elastic compression) – the result of this effect is the elimination of the mechanisms of the progress of varicose veins, without such therapy, conservative treatment is impossible;
• the required level of compression is achieved through the use of special jersey (special medical product), in this case it is important to choose the right size of compression jersey;
• compression hosiery is able to relieve swelling, pain and increased fatigue of the lower extremities;
• The required result is achieved with the constant application of elastic compression.

Deep vein thrombosis drug treatment

This implies a course of treatment with anticoagulants (drugs that prevent blood from clotting). The average duration of such a course is at least 3 months, and sometimes even longer. A combination of drugs that differ in the mechanism of action is envisaged. An important step in the medical treatment of DVT is the selection of blood thinners. To prevent gastrointestinal complications, some medications are given parenterally.

Pharmacotherapy is often performed on an outpatient basis. In severe forms of the disease, patients who have suffered thromboembolism of the pulmonary artery or thrombosis of the vena cava are annually hospitalized in the therapeutic or cardiological department for 2-3 weeks, where infusion hemorheological and cardiotonic therapy is performed.

Diet for deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities

In case of venous thrombosis, you need to follow a diet, excluding foods containing a significant amount of vitamin K and C from the diet.Moderate fluid intake is also recommended.

You should eat foods that thin your blood, such as garlic, peppers and artichokes.

Deep vein thrombosis – home treatment

Today, along with traditional methods of treating the disease, traditional medicine is practiced if deep vein thrombosis is determined. Treatment with folk remedies is used as an adjunct to the main treatment.

The first thing to do is to thin the blood.If you have deep vein thrombosis, traditional treatments include the following foods:

• onions and garlic;
• sunflower seeds;
• cocoa;
• beets;
• apple cider vinegar;
• tomatoes or tomato juice;
• Hercules;
• oatmeal;
• cranberries;
• oatmeal;
• lemon;
• cherries;
• viburnum.

Blood thinning should be approached with caution so as not to provoke bleeding.It is not recommended to eat fatty and meat products if there is deep vein thrombosis. Photos, the results of the wrong treatment are on the Internet.

Every day you can eat one spoonful of a mixture made from crushed garlic, two tablespoons of unrefined vegetable oil and one tablespoon of honey.

Prevention of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities

Prevention of the disease is primarily aimed at eliminating the causes of the development of vascular diseases.Thus, you need to get rid of bad habits, reduce body weight, treat diabetes mellitus, lower blood cholesterol levels and move more. So it will be possible to defeat deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities (diet, photos, results should be a stimulus!).

Deep vein thrombosis – reviews of our patients.

Testimonial of our patient about the deep vein thrombosis treatment performed at the MIFC center

Anita, 38 years old, Moscow.

I would like to thank the clinic staff for their professionalism.With their help, I began to trust traditional medicine again. Before I went to the clinic, I repeatedly underwent various therapeutic procedures for deep vein thrombosis in my legs. At first I had varicose veins with a complication, in which they underwent an operation to “suture the veins.” As a result, I practically became disabled. On the advice of my friends, I turned to the doctors of the MIFC clinic, who brought me back to a full life. It’s good that everything was done without surgery. Anita, 38 years old, Moscow.

Patient testimonial on the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis in our center

Andrey, 40 years old, Krasnogorsk.

Due to frequent stressful situations and bad habits, I have problems with my legs, or rather, impaired blood circulation. The legs were often swollen, blue and sometimes painful when walking. On the Internet, I accidentally saw an article about venous thrombosis, while the described symptoms coincided with my feelings. I was just recently advised a phlebology clinic, and I decided to go for a consultation.Doctor Malakhov A.M. diagnosed with acute deep vein thrombosis. At first, I was reassured and told that in this case, surgical intervention is indispensable. Since there was no other way out, I agreed and did not regret it. The operation in the vascular department of the city hospital, where I was urgently hospitalized, to remove the blood clot was successful and without complications. Now nothing threatens my life, thanks to the doctors of the clinic “MIFC” for their professionalism and “human” attitude towards patients! Andrey, 40 years old, Moscow.

Frequently asked questions from our patients on the Internet about deep vein thrombosis

How to understand that there are blood clots in the veins?

Only a specialist, phlebologist or vascular surgeon can reliably understand that there are blood clots in the veins. And even a specialized specialist will need instrumental support, an ultrasound examination of blood vessels. You can assume that you have blood clots in your veins by the following signs:

• Edema.
• Cyanosis of the skin.
• Soreness, swelling of tissues, redness of the skin along the veins.

If there are blood clots in the veins, how to recognize them, symptoms and treatment?

Blood clots in the veins can be detected using duplex ultrasound scanning. The following symptoms indicate the presence of blood clots in the veins: swelling, pain, discoloration of the limb. The best diagnostic option, as well as subsequent treatment, would be to contact a good phlebological center.

How to recognize a blood clot on the leg?

In order to recognize a blood clot in your leg, you must seek professional medical attention. Alternatively, do an ultrasound examination of the vessels of the lower extremity. The best solution would be to consult a narrow specialist, phlebologist.

How to identify blood clots in the legs?

From the point of view of modern diagnostics, the best way to identify blood clots in the legs is an ultrasound examination of the vessels of the lower extremities.

A blood clot in a vein, how is it formed?

A thrombus in a vein is formed as a result of a complex chain of biochemical reactions, during which a network of insoluble fibrin molecules is formed from fibrinogen molecules. In the latter, blood cells are fixed, creating a dense intravascular structure, which is a thrombus.

How to identify a blood clot?

A thrombus can be determined by various methods, both computed and magnetic resonance imaging, and a good ultrasound examination.The latter technique is more optimal in terms of price-quality ratio and is the gold standard for the diagnosis of thrombosis.

How to prevent the formation of blood clots in blood vessels?

It is possible to prevent the formation of blood clots in the vessels if you are examined by a phlebologist in a timely manner, follow the doctor’s recommendations, eliminate varicose veins, if detected.

90,000 Thrombosis symptoms – how to diagnose thrombosis

There are two main forms of venous thrombosis: deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and superficial vein thrombosis or thrombophlebitis.The first form is the most dangerous. Deep vein thrombosis in the initial periods may be asymptomatic. Blood clots can break off and enter the pulmonary bloodstream and block the pulmonary arteries – then pulmonary embolism develops, sometimes this is the first sign of DVT. TELA is a life-threatening condition. [1]

Symptoms of venous thrombosis of the lower extremities are often nonspecific, but may differ depending on how much the vein is thrombosed, where the thrombus is located, and the duration of the disease.[1]

If thrombophlebitis is suspected, both legs should be examined, since bilateral damage to both superficial and deep veins is possible.In many patients, the transition of the process of thrombus formation from superficial veins to deep veins can proceed without obvious clinical symptoms. [1]

For an accurate diagnosis, it is additionally required to carry out special laboratory and instrumental diagnostic methods. [2]

If you suspect you have any symptoms of thrombosis, immediately consult a doctor for advice.

SARU.ENO.16.05.0678 (1)

1. Russian clinical guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolic complications (VTEC).Phlebology, 2015: 4 (2): 3-52
2. Givirovskaya N.E., Mikhal’skiy V.V. Thrombosis and thrombophlebitis of the veins of the lower extremities: etiology, diagnosis and treatment. Russian medical journal, 2009. No. 25: p. 1663.

SARU.ENO.19.02.0227

90,000 symptoms, causes, treatment of venous thrombosis of the lower extremities, arteries (deep / superficial) – Department of Phlebology – 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 even 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, heart attack) and death. There are two types of thrombosis: venous and arterial. The names show where the blood clots are formed. In the first case – in the veins, in the second – in the arteries. The disease can be acute or chronic. Arterial thrombosis is the most dangerous.

Main causes of occurrence

There are three main factors for blood clots.

1. Damage to the vessel wall (as a result of trauma, during surgery and improper nutrition (cholesterol plaques are formed), infection, lifting weights, during childbirth, etc.).
2. Blood clotting disorder (tendency to increased coagulation). Changes in blood clotting can occur due to metabolic disorders or hormonal imbalances.
3. Blood congestion . It occurs when a person stays in one position for a long time (for example, in front of a computer, in an airplane seat, or bedridden).

The risk group also includes people with varicose veins, 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 the adjacent areas in the form of a pulsating stream
• Feeling of numbness of the limbs, depending on the location of the thrombus, as a result of which they lose sensitivity and become cold
• Shortness of breath, heart rhythm disturbance, chest tightness (with blockage of the pulmonary artery)
• Dizziness, speech disorder (when the cerebral arteries are blocked)

With venous thrombosis , the following is observed:

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

Diagnosis of the disease

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

Specialists to contact:

Treatment

Depending on the severity of the ongoing disease, conservative and surgical treatment is possible. During surgery, the following is carried out: removal of blood clots, suturing of a vessel, ligation of veins, arteriovenous bypass grafting or other necessary operation.

Conservative treatment includes:

• Drug therapy (anticoagulants, administration of blood clot dissolving agents, etc.)
• Diet therapy
• UHF therapy.

Prevention

Preventive actions:

• Use of elastic bandages and compression garments
• Smoking cessation
• Rational and proper nutrition
• Vitamin therapy
• Locomotor activity
• Timely treatment of concomitant diseases
• Monitor cholesterol and blood glucose levels
• Decrease in body weight.

If symptoms of the disease appear, you can seek advice and examination in Moscow from the specialists of the Central Clinical Hospital of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Recording is made by phone …

7 signs that there may be blood clots in the body

Blood clots are blood clots. Normally, they protect us from scratches and other wounds: blood clots, a blood clot stops bleeding from a damaged capillary or vein. And then, having completed the task, within a few hours or days it safely disintegrates and disappears.But sometimes things don’t go according to plan ^.

Why thrombi are dangerous

Thrombi can also occur inside the veins. This condition is called thrombosis. It most often affects the legs, especially if you are sedentary. But any part of the body can be at risk.

If such a blood clot breaks off, it will enter the general bloodstream and can block blood vessels in the heart, brain or lungs. This is a life-threatening situation that can lead to a heart attack, stroke or pulmonary embolism ^{– lung failure.}

Therefore, it is extremely important to know the symptoms of blood clots. Your life may depend on it.

Now reading 💔

When you need to call an ambulance immediately

Urgently dial 103 or 112, if ^:

• suddenly it became difficult to breathe, there is a lack of oxygen;
• there is chest pain or just discomfort, which is aggravated by coughing or taking a deep breath;
• when coughing, sputum is released with blood;
• difficulties with speech;
• vision deteriorated – double vision began to appear in the eyes, blind spots, “fog” appeared;
• blood pressure dropped sharply, and this is accompanied by dizziness, blurred consciousness, fainting.

This is how a heart attack, stroke, and pulmonary embolism manifest themselves. It is not a fact that they are provoked by a detached blood clot. But in any case, there is no time to think about the reasons: if the above symptoms appear, immediately seek help.

How to understand that you may have blood clots

It is better not to bring the matter to critical, deadly manifestations – this is understandable. It is important to catch thrombosis at the earliest possible stage in order to prevent complications.

The problem is that it is difficult to suspect the presence of blood clots in the vessels. According to 90,535 US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about half of people have little to no blood clots.

Nevertheless, it is still possible to assume a blockage of the vessels. Here are some ^{signs indicating possible thrombosis in different parts of the body.}

1. Swelling in the leg or arm

Edema can occur in the place where the vessel is directly blocked, or spread to the entire limb.Moreover, in this case, only one hand or leg suffers – the one in the vessels of which the alleged thrombus is located.

2. Leg cramps

Regular cramps can be a symptom of poor circulation. Blood clots can also cause it.

3. Sudden leg pain

This is one of the main symptoms of deep vein thrombosis. Often pain in the area of ​​the gastrocnemius muscle, sharp or throbbing ^{, is almost the only sign of acute circulatory disorders.}

4. Changes in skin color

Thrombus impedes normal blood circulation. As a result, some of the blood vessels are overflowing with blood, and some, on the contrary, suffer from a lack of it. This can be manifested by changes in skin color: in some areas of the affected limb, it turns red or becomes cyanotic, in others, on the contrary, it turns pale.

5. Changes in skin temperature

In the area of ​​a blood clot, the skin may regularly heat up and itch. The rise in temperature has a chance to feel it by touch.

6. Unmotivated attacks of nausea or vomiting

If you feel nauseous regularly, this may be a symptom of thrombosis of the mesenteric vessels – those that supply blood to different parts of the intestine. It is possible to assume the condition if vomiting appears, but does not bring relief, and you continue to feel nauseous.

7. Abdominal pain

It can also be a sign of blockage of mesenteric vessels. Especially if the stomach aches almost constantly, and the pain intensifies after eating.Also among the indirect signs of thrombosis are diarrhea and bloating.

What to do if you have signs of thrombosis

If you have the slightest suspicion, be sure to consult a physician as soon as possible. The doctor will conduct an examination, ask you about the symptoms and, if necessary, send you to a narrow specialist – a phlebologist or vascular surgeon.

Treatment for ^{will depend on where the clot is located and how high the risk is that it may come off.One option is to wear compression stockings to reduce swelling and pain and prevent the clot from growing in size. Medications may also be required: thromboembolytics (they dissolve blood clots) and anticoagulants (reduce blood clotting and prevent new blood clots from forming). The last resort is surgery.}

We remind you once again: only a qualified doctor can decide which method of treatment will be most effective in your case.Self-activity in this matter is deadly.

And don’t relax. According to 90,535 US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3 out of 10 people who get rid of thrombosis will have blood clots again within the next 10 years. Therefore, train yourself to monitor your well-being. Life can depend on it.

Read also 🦵🛌😭

Thrombosis and thrombophelia of the lower extremities, causes, symptoms, treatment

What is thrombofelitis and thrombosis

I am often asked about such a problem as clogged veins, what is meant by such a concept.The fact is that such a simple, everyday word most often means such a dangerous complication as thrombosis. So, the vein in our leg has several membranes. The inner lining of the veins is represented by a thin layer of thin vessels. This layer of thin vessels is called the endothelium and is nourished by the oxygen of the moving blood. Only moving blood, giving and taking oxygen, feeds this shell. If the movement of blood through the vein ends, and the blood does not move or moves chaotically up and down, in this case there are phenomena that can lead to hypoxia of the inner lining of the vein wall, that is, the normal exchange of oxygen is disrupted.And this leads to the development of inflammatory phenomena. Inflammation in the vein wall, arising from the adhesion of various shaped elements to it, poor nutrition of the vein wall itself, oxygen starvation causes and triggers a thrombotic reaction. Shaped elements begin to form in the area of ​​the vein wall, sticking like a snowball to its wall. First of all, platelets. Platelets release active substances that form fibrin strands. And these filaments of fibrin, like a mesh, blocking the lumen of the vessel, cause the formation of a dense clot, which is called a thrombus or, in the common people, clogging of veins.This thrombus by itself can cause inflammation of the adjacent section of the vein and again everything will repeat itself, the formed elements become inflamed again and the next section of thrombosis is inflamed again.

Symptoms of venous thrombosis of the lower extremities

So, this process can go on for a very long time and outwardly manifests itself as redness on the skin, a sharp compaction of the skin itself and soreness. Thus, if you see a red spot on the leg, then this may, unfortunately, mean the beginning of the process of inflammation or blockage of the vein.And this is the beginning of the inflammatory process, which is formed by venous congestion. To tell the truth, not only the venous capacity itself forms a person’s tendency to thrombosis, very often thrombotic changes are observed with high cholesterol. Cholesterol can damage the vein by forming a blood clot and clot. And this also needs to be remembered by our patients.

Thrombophilia of the lower extremities – the cause of heredity

Another important element that must be taken into account in the formation of a blood clot is hereditary defects in the very structure of the blood.Such hereditary defects are called and are included in the concept of thrombophilia. Thrombo from the word “thrombus” and “philia” from the word love, in Greek, I love blood clots. This is how this situation arises in a person and manifests it completely spontaneously sometimes, sometimes just with a blow, with a leg injury, sometimes quite at a young age of 27-30 years, a person begins to spontaneously coagulate blood in deep veins and forms a clot, which is very quickly captured by others areas of healthy veins. It is because of thrombophilia, not diagnosed thrombophilia, that rather severe, rather life-threatening complications such as thrombobolism in patients are diagnosed.Unfortunately, it is very difficult to detect thrombophilia, but if you are hereditary, if you have had such cases in your family, then remember that you may be a carrier of a defective gene, which leads to a tendency, a high tendency for blood clots to form. Remember this and find out the medical history of your relatives and friends while they are alive.

Treatment of thrombosis and thrombophilia of the lower extremities

Approaches to the treatment of varicose veins and its complications in the form of blockage of veins must be divided into two groups: this treatment is local with anti-inflammatory ointments, such as butadiene ointment, Advantan emulsion or Voltaren gel, and with the help of such simple things as ice on the inflamed area body, on the area of ​​clogged veins or thrombophlebitis, which can be applied for 15-20 minutes after 2-2.5 hours for 5-6 days, even such simple measures as ice, anti-inflammatory ointments, blunt elastic bandaging of this place help us eliminate this problem, make it less dangerous and more controllable within 3-4 days, and then it is necessary to deal with the causes of this thrombophlebitis.

Here you cannot do without consultation, it is necessary to check the deep saphenous veins and find out why, after all, the blood coagulated in this vein and led to the formation of an inflammatory filtrate in the form of clogging of veins or thrombophlebitis, it is by learning the details of this problem that we can pick up the necessary little for our patients traumatic treatment, laser or radiofrequency energy treatment, and sclerotherapy.

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90,000 Thrombophlebitis of the veins of the lower extremities, symptoms and treatment

Thrombophlebitis of the veins of the lower extremities is a dangerous disease that can lead to disability, deterioration in the quality of life, and disability.Blood clots can form in the inflamed veins and prevent normal blood flow.

Signs and symptoms of thrombophlebitis of the lower extremities

The disease appears quickly enough, and the symptoms intensify every day. The initial stage is characterized by moderate pain, slight swelling and redness. Patients usually do not attach importance to such complications, trying to fight the disease with folk remedies or ointments. The patient’s condition worsens quickly, the blood clot increases in size, clogs the vein walls and poses a serious danger to life.That is why it is very important to turn to a specialist for help in time. You need to pay attention to the following factors and symptoms:

• Bursting pains in the legs. The severity and squeezing sensations accompany the patient in everyday life with any movement of the ankle. The pain occurs due to the inflammatory process in the veins, next to which the sensitive nerve endings are located. The inflammation gradually affects them.
• Swelling of the lower extremities. Over time, it becomes visible to the naked eye.When pressed, deformation of the skin is observed, which can persist for a short time.
• Pain on palpation of the damaged vein. This symptom is not typical for all patients, because possible deep damage to the vein. Thrombophlebitis of superficial veins can lead to severe painful sensations.
• Blue skin tone. A shade of blue appears on large areas of the skin, and not only in places of blood clot formation. This is due to stagnation of blood in the capillaries.Such a process is dangerous due to a possible complication in the form of a trophic ulcer.
• Local temperature rise. The area around the inflamed vein becomes very hot due to the formation of blood clots. This is due to the fact that with deep vein thrombosis, the blood flow in them decreases, and in the superficial veins, it increases
• Swelling of superficial veins. Deep vein thrombophlebitis obstructs normal blood flow. Because of this, some of the blood is redirected to the superficial veins, which suffer from a lot of pressure.The increased load leads to their swelling, the veins become clearly visible through the skin.

Due to the inflammatory process, the body temperature usually rises. In most cases, it rises to 38 ° C. This is due to the body’s defensive response to boost immunity. All processes in the body are accelerated, blood flow to the damaged area increases. An increase in temperature is an important signal for the patient.

Causes of deep vein thrombophlebitis

It is impossible to unequivocally determine the reasons why this serious and dangerous disease appears.In each case, there are prerequisites. Doctors identify patients who can be attributed to the risk group. The factors that provoke the appearance of the disease look like this:

1. Increased blood clotting initially implies the risk of blood clots. The legs suffer primarily from increased stress and constant pressure on them. When diagnosing deep vein thrombophlebitis of the lower extremities, doctors must understand the causes of increased coagulation.This pathology can be caused by hormonal disruption, dehydration, or poor liver function. That is why it is important to examine the patient comprehensively.
2. Inflammatory processes of the affected vein are due to some reason. This can be mechanical damage, autoimmune processes, or the presence of a viral infection. The patient needs to pass a number of tests so that the doctor can accurately diagnose and prescribe an effective treatment for deep vein thrombophlebitis of the lower extremities.
3. Genetics.The disease can be safely attributed to those that are inherited. If the next of kin suffered from varicose veins or other similar diseases, then the patient will be at risk. The weakness of the venous wall is due to genes, such categories of patients need to be examined regularly.
4. Stagnation. In addition to chronic diseases, physical causes can also contribute to the development of thrombosis. The risk group includes people whose profession is inextricably linked with prolonged standing or hard physical labor.Vein enlargement is an occupational disease of merchants, hairdressers and chefs.
5. External factors. The state of blood vessels can deteriorate even in a healthy person. This is facilitated by external factors such as smoking, alcohol abuse, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Thrombophlebitis should be treated at an early stage, so patients should be careful about their health. Severe heaviness in the legs towards the end of the day, swelling, pain, veins hardening are important signals that cannot be ignored.If a person falls into a risk group, then you should pay attention to the lifestyle and change it for the better.

90,000 15 dangerous signs of a blood clot in the body that can kill you instantly :: Infoniac

Health

Knowing the first signs of a blood clot in the body can prevent a potentially fatal situation.

A blood clot usually forms in the veins of the legs and leads to deep vein thrombosis. The danger of a blood clot is that it often goes unnoticed , but can suddenly come off and lead to death.

A blood clot is a blood clot that has acquired a thick or semi-solid state from a liquid state.

In general, you need to understand that blood clotting is a necessary process that prevents a lot of blood loss in certain situations, such as when you are injured or cut.

Read also: You need to know! 15 symptoms of stroke in women they often ignore

When a blood clot forms in one of the veins, it does not always dissolve, which can lead to a dangerous and even fatal situation in the future.

An immobile blood clot is usually not a threat, but if it breaks off and travels through veins to important organs such as the heart or lungs, it can be fatal.

Here are some signs that a dangerous blood clot has formed in your body.

The first signs of a blood clot

1. Unexplained fatigue

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Sudden fatigue often indicates a variety of health problems, including blood clot formation.When our body is forced to work harder than usual, it has negative consequences for the body.

If the feeling of fatigue does not go away for a long time, there is reason to think that a blood clot in the arm, leg, brain or chest may be to blame.

2. Swelling in the limbs

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Swelling or swelling may appear at the site of the blood clot.If a blood clot is in an arm or leg, the limb can become completely swollen due to poor blood circulation.

Read also: Thrombosis and its causes

However, the affected area may change color, turn red or blue, become warm, or itch. This situation is very dangerous, since a blood clot can come off and get into a vital organ at any moment. So, for example, if it ends up in the lungs, it will lead to a pulmonary embolism.

3. Difficulty breathing

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This symptom can be quite frightening, as it can mean that a blood clot has moved to the lungs. According to experts, if breathing difficulties are accompanied by a persistent cough, this may be the first sign of a pulmonary embolism – a blockage of one of the arteries in the lungs.

This situation should be taken very seriously and an ambulance should be called as soon as possible.

4. Chest pain or pain on breathing

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As mentioned above, pulmonary embolism is a potentially fatal condition. It occurs when a blood clot formed in the lower extremities enters and blocks one of the vessels of the lungs. One of the main symptoms of this is chest pain and general breathing discomfort, which can make it difficult for you to take a deep breath.

It is also important to remember that heart pain can also indicate that a blood clot is in the area of ​​the heart, and this can lead to a heart attack.

5. Fever and perspiration

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This symptom very often appears with renal thrombosis.

The main danger is that a blood clot can interfere with your body’s disposal of waste products, leading to high blood pressure and even kidney failure.In this case, often a blood clot in the kidney leads to fever or increased sweating.

Blood clot symptoms

6. Dizziness or fainting

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The combination of chest pain and shortness of breath can make you feel dizzy and lead to fainting.

7. Rapid heartbeat

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If your heart rate is faster, it can be a dangerous symptom of a pulmonary embolism.When a blood clot reaches your lungs, there is a lack of oxygen, and your heart tries to compensate by increasing your heart rate. This is a warning sign that cannot be ignored.

See also: How the body warns us of the threat of death: 5 clear signs of an imminent heart attack

8. Unexplained cough

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If you have coughing fits, along with a feeling of shortness of breath and an accelerated heartbeat, this may indicate that a blood clot has formed in your body.A cough may be accompanied by blood, and this is a serious reason to see a doctor.

The cause of such a cough may be a blood clot in the lungs, which leads to airway congestion and manifests itself in the form of a cough.

9. Severe headache

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Many people suffer from chronic headaches, but the pain is often worse than usual.Such unbearable pain can completely incapacitate you, making you unable to focus on anything.

However, conventional headache medications may not relieve symptoms. In this case, see your doctor immediately, as this may indicate the presence of a blood clot in the brain, which can lead to a stroke.

10. Pain or tenderness in the limb

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It is very difficult to know if you have a blood clot without medical knowledge, but one of the most common symptoms of this problem is pain in an arm or leg.

If not related to trauma, soreness may warn of deep vein thrombosis. In this case, there may be soreness when pressing or touching the affected area. To distinguish it from muscle cramps, pay attention to whether the pain gets worse when walking or bending your leg. If so, there is a possibility of a blood clot.

Even if a blood clot is present in one leg, you may feel soreness in both legs.This is due to the fact that you are trying to relieve discomfort in one leg and more strain on the other leg, which can lead to tension and pain.

Blood clot in vein

11. Leather warm to the touch

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With a thrombosis, the temperature of the skin can change, especially in the area where the thrombus is present. You will feel that this area is warmer to the touch.

This sensation occurs due to impaired blood flow and may also be accompanied by throbbing and itching.

12. Red streaks along the veins

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Blood clots can lead to red streaks that run along the length of the veins and are often warm to the touch. When you touch them, they are warmer than the skin around them and are quite noticeable. You may mistake them for skin rashes or bruises, but if they are warm to the touch, it is worth consulting your doctor.

13. Pain in the calves of the legs

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When a blood clot forms in the legs, calf pain is a common symptom. Pain is often confused with muscle spasm or cramps, and for this reason, a dangerous symptom is often ignored.

However, unlike a spasm, which occurs abruptly and lasts several minutes, pain in the calves from a blood clot increases gradually and may remain for several days or weeks.

14. Change in skin color

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Redness is one of the most common symptoms associated with the presence of a blood clot, and it usually appears at the site where the blood clot is present. However, any other change in skin color should also alert you. For example, the area of ​​blood clot formation may turn pale due to decreased blood flow.

As the condition worsens, the skin may become bluish and colder to the touch.