What causes blood clots to form in the legs. How are deep vein thrombosis symptoms recognized. What are the most effective treatments for leg blood clots. Who is at highest risk for developing DVT. When should you seek medical attention for suspected blood clots. How can deep vein thrombosis be prevented. What complications can arise from untreated DVT.

Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis: A Comprehensive Overview

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition characterized by the formation of blood clots in deep veins, most commonly in the legs. These clots can pose significant health risks if left untreated, potentially leading to life-threatening complications. To effectively manage and prevent DVT, it’s crucial to understand its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

The Formation of Blood Clots: Causes and Risk Factors

Blood clots are the body’s natural response to injury, forming a gel-like mass of platelets and fibrin to stop bleeding. However, when these clots form incorrectly inside deep veins, they can impede blood flow and cause serious problems. Several factors contribute to the development of DVT:

• Prolonged immobility
• Smoking
• Advanced age (65 or older)
• Cancer treatment or survivorship
• Hormone medications (e.g., birth control)
• Recent surgery
• History of stroke or paralysis
• Existing heart conditions
• Previous blood clots or inherited blood-clotting disorders

Can long-distance travel increase the risk of DVT? According to the CDC, individuals on flights lasting 4 hours or more are at an increased risk of developing DVT. This highlights the importance of movement and circulation during extended periods of inactivity.

Recognizing the Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention

Identifying the symptoms of DVT is crucial for early intervention and prevention of complications. Common signs include:

• Swelling in the affected leg
• Skin redness or discoloration
• Soreness or pain
• Warmth in the affected area

Is immediate medical attention necessary for suspected DVT? Given the potential for life-threatening complications, it is essential to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible if you suspect a blood clot in your leg. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of serious outcomes.

Diagnostic Approaches: Confirming the Presence of DVT

When a patient presents with symptoms suggestive of DVT, healthcare providers employ a combination of clinical assessment and diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis:

1. Medical history review
2. Physical examination
3. Imaging tests, primarily duplex ultrasonography

How does duplex ultrasonography work in diagnosing DVT? This non-invasive imaging technique uses sound waves to visualize blood flow and detect blockages or clots in deep veins and arteries. It provides a reliable method for confirming the presence of DVT without exposing the patient to radiation.

Treatment Options: Tailoring Care to Individual Needs

The treatment of DVT is individualized based on factors such as the patient’s age, overall health, and the location and extent of the clot. Common treatment approaches include:

1. Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners)

Anticoagulants are the most frequently prescribed treatment for DVT. They work by:

• Reducing the body’s ability to form new clots
• Preventing existing clots from growing larger

These medications can be administered orally or through intravenous injections. The duration of treatment varies, with some patients requiring short-term therapy while others may need long-term management to prevent recurrence.

2. Thrombolytics

In cases where anticoagulants are ineffective or when dealing with extensive clots, thrombolytics may be recommended. These potent medications work by dissolving existing blood clots but carry an increased risk of bleeding. Due to this risk, thrombolytics are administered only under close medical supervision, typically via catheter or intravenous injection.

3. Surgical Intervention

While rare, surgical thrombectomy may be necessary for massive clots or those causing damage to surrounding tissues. This procedure involves the physical removal of the clot and is typically reserved for severe cases that have not responded to other treatment modalities.

How is the most appropriate treatment determined for each patient? The choice of treatment is based on a careful evaluation of the patient’s individual circumstances, considering factors such as the severity of the clot, overall health status, and potential risks associated with each treatment option.

Preventing DVT: Strategies for Reducing Risk

Prevention plays a crucial role in managing the risk of DVT, especially for individuals with known risk factors. Effective preventive measures include:

• Regular physical activity and exercise
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Staying hydrated, especially during long travels
• Wearing compression stockings when recommended
• Taking breaks to move and stretch during long periods of sitting
• Following medication regimens as prescribed by healthcare providers

Are there specific exercises that can help prevent DVT? Simple leg exercises, such as ankle rotations, calf raises, and walking, can promote blood circulation and reduce the risk of clot formation, particularly during long periods of immobility.

Complications of Untreated DVT: Understanding the Risks

Left untreated, DVT can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications:

Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

The most severe complication of DVT is pulmonary embolism, which occurs when a blood clot breaks free and travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow. PE is a medical emergency that can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Post-thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)

This chronic condition can develop after DVT, causing long-term symptoms such as pain, swelling, and skin changes in the affected limb. PTS can significantly impact quality of life and may lead to disability if severe.

How quickly can DVT lead to complications? The progression from DVT to complications like PE can occur rapidly, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment. Symptoms of PE, such as sudden shortness of breath or chest pain, require immediate medical attention.

Specialized Care for Vascular Diseases: The Role of Vascular Medicine Centers

Specialized vascular medicine centers play a crucial role in the comprehensive management of DVT and other vascular diseases. These centers offer:

• Advanced diagnostic capabilities, including state-of-the-art imaging techniques
• Expert medical staff with extensive experience in vascular diseases
• Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique situation
• Access to the latest treatments and clinical trials
• Ongoing support and follow-up care to prevent recurrence and manage long-term effects

What should patients expect when seeking care at a vascular medicine center? Typically, the process begins with an initial consultation and diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound. Based on these results and a thorough medical history, specialists work with patients to develop an appropriate treatment plan, ensuring a comprehensive approach to vascular health.

The management of deep vein thrombosis requires a multifaceted approach, combining early detection, appropriate treatment, and ongoing prevention strategies. By understanding the risks, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking timely medical care, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing DVT and its potentially life-threatening complications. As research in vascular medicine continues to advance, new treatments and preventive measures offer hope for improved outcomes and quality of life for those affected by this serious condition.

Blood Clot in Leg | Center for Vascular Medicine

Blood Clot Causes

A blood clot can be much more than something that forms when you get a cut or scrape, and can actually become a serious medical problem. The discovery of a blood clot in your leg can lead to severe health problems if left untreated.

What are the Common Causes?

Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), commonly known as a blood clot, occurs when a gel-like mass consisting of platelets and fibrin forms in the blood to stop bleeding. If a blood clot forms incorrectly inside a deep artery or vein, especially in your leg, it can hinder blood flow and create further problems.

A blood clot may form in your veins if you:

• Have long periods of immobility
• Are a smoker
• Are 65 or older
• Are currently undergoing cancer treatment, or are a survivor
• Are taking hormone medications such as birth control
• Have had a recent surgery
• Have had a stroke or are paralyzed
• Have an existing heart condition
• Have had a blood clot before, or have an inherited blood-clot disorder

As you can see, blood clots can affect nearly anyone. The CDC said anyone who is on a flight for 4 hours or more is susceptible to being diagnosed with DVT. 

If you suspect or discover there is a blood clot in your leg, you will need to get a professional diagnosis and decide on a treatment plan.

Diagnosis

You may have a blood clot in your leg if you see or feel swelling, skin redness, soreness, pain, or an area warm to the touch. Life-threatening complications can arise from an untreated blood clot, and you should seek treatment as soon as possible if you suspect you have one.

Upon visiting your doctor, they will go over your medical history and perform a physical evaluation. If they suspect you have a blood clot, it will be confirmed using an imaging test called duplex ultrasonography. It uses sound waves to look at blood flow and detect blockages or blood clots in deep veins and arteries.

Treatment Options

Not everyone goes through the same treatment for a deep-vein blood clot. Treatment can include:

• Anticoagulants: The most common treatment for a blood clot is anticoagulants or blood thinners. They work by reducing the body’s ability to form new clots and preventing existing clots from growing larger. Anticoagulants can be given in the form of pills or intravenous injections. Some individuals may take them only for the clot’s duration, or longer to prevent new clots from forming.
• Thrombolytics: Thrombolytics are only recommended for individuals whose blood clots did not respond to basic anticoagulants or have extensive clots. They work by dissolving blood clots but can increase the risk of bleeding. Thrombolytics are only administered by a catheter or intravenous injections.
• Surgery: Very rarely, an individual may have to undergo surgery. A surgical thrombectomy may be necessary for massive clots or clots that are damaging the surrounding tissues. As long as you seek early treatment for a suspected blood clot, this treatment is easily avoided.

You and your doctor will make the best choice while considering factors such as your age, overall health, and clot location. 

What to Expect with CVM When Treating a Blood Clot?

At the Center for Vascular Medicine, our mission is to help patients with their vascular diseases in a cost-effective and compassionate manner. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of venous and arterial diseases in the legs, feet, and pelvis. Our world-class providers are the most experienced in the specialty and work with patients to develop a treatment plan that is custom-tailored to their unique situation.

Typically, this process involves an initial consultation and ultrasound scan at one of our accredited facilities. After reviewing the results of your scan and obtaining a thorough medical history, our providers will discuss the results with you and help you decide on the next steps.

Our health care providers use several diagnostic tests to help determine what vascular diseases may be causing your symptoms. Our initial evaluations utilize ultrasound because this non-invasive imaging modality helps us verify our suspicions on whether your symptoms are caused by underlying vascular disease.

Pulmonary Embolism | Johns Hopkins Medicine

What is a pulmonary embolism?

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blood clot that develops in a blood vessel in the body (often in the leg). It then travels to a lung artery where it suddenly blocks blood flow.

A blood clot that forms in a blood vessel in one area of the body, breaks off, and travels to another area of the body in the blood is called an embolus. An embolus can lodge itself in a blood vessel. This can block the blood supply to a particular organ. This blockage of a blood vessel by an embolus is called an embolism.

The heart, arteries, capillaries, and veins make up the body’s circulatory system. Blood is pumped with great force from the heart into the arteries. From there blood flows into the capillaries (tiny blood vessels in the tissues). Blood returns to the heart through the veins. As it moves through the veins back to the heart, blood flow slows. Sometimes this slower blood flow may lead to clot formation.

What causes a pulmonary embolism?

Blood clotting is a normal process to prevent bleeding. The body makes blood clots and then breaks them down. Under certain circumstances, the body may be unable to break down a clot. This may result in a serious health problem.

When blood clots in a vein, it may be due to the slowed blood flow, an abnormality in clot forming, or from an injury to the blood vessel wall.

Blood clots can form in arteries and veins. Clots formed in veins are called venous clots. Veins of the legs can be superficial veins (close to the surface of the skin) or deep veins (located near the bone and surrounded by muscle).

Venous clots most often happen in the deep veins of the legs. This is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Once a clot has formed in the deep veins of the leg, there is a potential for part of the clot to break off and travel through the blood to another area of the body, often the lung. DVT is the most common cause of a pulmonary embolism.

Other less frequent sources of pulmonary embolism are a fat embolus (often linked to the breaking of a large bone), amniotic fluid embolus, air bubbles, and a deep vein thrombosis in the upper body. Clots may also form on the end of an indwelling intravenous (IV) catheter, break off, and travel to the lungs.

Who is at risk for a pulmonary embolism?

Risk factors for pulmonary embolism include:

• Genetic conditions that increase the risk of blood clot formation

• Family history of blood clotting disorders

• Surgery or injury (especially to the legs) or orthopedic surgery

• Situations in which mobility is limited, such as extended bed rest, flying or riding long distances, or paralysis

• Previous history of clots

• Older age

• Cancer and cancer therapy

• Certain medical conditions, such as heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), high blood pressure, stroke, and inflammatory bowel disease

• Certain medicines, such birth control pills and estrogen replacement therapy

• During and after pregnancy, including after cesarean section

• Obesity

• Enlarged veins in the legs (varicose veins)

• Cigarette smoking

What are the symptoms of a pulmonary embolism?

The following are the most common symptoms for pulmonary embolism (PE). However, each person may experience symptoms differently:

• Sudden shortness of breath (most common)

• Chest pain (usually worse with breathing)

• A feeling of anxiety

• A feeling of dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting

• Irregular heartbeat

• Palpitations (heart racing)

• Coughing and/or coughing up blood

• Sweating

• Low blood pressure

You may also have symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), such as:

• Pain in the affected leg (may happen only when standing or walking)

• Swelling in the leg

• Soreness, tenderness, redness, and/or warmth in the leg(s)

• Redness and/or discolored skin

If your healthcare provider thinks you have a PE, he or she will check your legs for signs of deep vein thrombosis.

The type and extent of symptoms of a PE will depend on the size of the embolism and whether you have heart and/or lung problems.

The symptoms of a PE may look like other medical conditions or problems. Always talk with a healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is pulmonary embolism diagnosed?

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is often difficult to diagnose because the symptoms of PE are a lot like those of many other conditions and diseases.

Along with a complete medical history and physical exam, tests used to look for a PE may include:

• Chest X-ray. This imaging test is used to assess the lungs and heart. Chest X-rays show information about the size, shape, contour, and anatomic location of the heart, lungs, bronchi (large breathing tubes), aorta and pulmonary arteries, and mediastinum (area in the middle of the chest separating the lungs).

• Ventilation-perfusion scan (V/Q scan). For this nuclear radiology test, a small amount of a radioactive substance is used to help examine the lungs. A ventilation scan evaluates ventilation, or the movement of air into and out of the bronchi and bronchioles. A perfusion scan evaluates blood flow within the lungs.

• Pulmonary angiogram. This X-ray image of the blood vessels is used to evaluate various conditions, such as aneurysm (bulging of a blood vessel), stenosis (narrowing of a blood vessel), or blockages. A dye (contrast) is injected through a thin flexible tube placed in an artery. This dye makes the blood vessels show up on X-ray.

• Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan). This is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed images of the body. A CT scan shows details of the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT with contrast enhances the image of the blood vessels in the lungs. Contrast is a dye-like substance injected into a vein that causes the organ or tissue under study to show up more clearly on the scan.

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This imaging test uses a combination of a magnetic field, radiofrequencies, and a computer to make detailed images of organs and structures within the body.

• Duplex ultrasound (US). This type of vascular ultrasound is done to assess blood flow and the structure of the blood vessels in the legs. (Blood clots from the legs often dislodge and travel into the lung.) US uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs.

• Lab tests. Blood tests are used to check the blood’s clotting status, including a test called D-dimer level. Other blood work may include testing for genetic disorders that may contribute to abnormal clotting of the blood. Arterial blood gases may be checked to see how much oxygen is in the blood.

• Electrocardiogram (EKG). This is one of the simplest and fastest tests used to evaluate the heart. Electrodes (small, sticky patches) are placed at certain spots on the chest, arms, and legs. The electrodes are connected to an EKG machine by lead wires. The electrical activity of the heart is measured, interpreted, and printed out.

How is a pulmonary embolism treated?

Treatment choices for pulmonary embolism (PE) include:

• Anticoagulants. Also described as blood thinners, these medicines decrease the ability of the blood to clot. This helps stop a clot from getting bigger and keep new clots from forming. Examples include warfarin and heparin.

• Fibrinolytic therapy. Also called clot busters, these medicines are given intravenously (IV or into a vein) to break down the clot. These medicines are only used in life-threatening situations.

• Vena cava filter. A small metal device placed in the vena cava (the large blood vessel that returns blood from the body to the heart) may be used to keep clots from traveling to the lungs. These filters are generally used when you can’t get anticoagulation treatment (for medical reasons), develop more clots even with anticoagulation treatment, or when you have bleeding problems from anticoagulation medicines.

• Pulmonary embolectomy. Rarely used, this is surgery done to remove a PE. It is generally done only in severe cases when your PE is very large, you can’t get anticoagulation and/or thrombolytic therapy due to other medical problems or you haven’t responded well to those treatments, or your condition is unstable.

• Percutaneous thrombectomy. A long, thin, hollow tube (catheter) can be threaded through the blood vessel to the site of the embolism guided by X-ray. Once the catheter is in place, it’s used to break up the embolism, pull it out, or dissolve it using thrombolytic medicine.

An important aspect of treating a PE is preventive treatment to prevent formation of additional embolisms.

What are the complications of a pulmonary embolism?

A pulmonary embolism (PE) can cause a lack of blood flow that leads to lung tissue damage. It can cause low blood oxygen levels that can damage other organs in the body, too.

A PE, particularly a large PE or many clots, can quickly cause serious life-threatening problems and, even death.

Treatment of a PE often involves anti-coagulation medicines or blood thinners. These medicines can put you at a risk for excessive bleeding if they thin your blood too much. Excessive bleeding is bleeding that won’t stop after you apply pressure for 10 minutes. Other symptoms of bleeding to watch for include:

Signs of bleeding in the digestive system:

• Bright red vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds

• Bright red blood in your stool or black, tarry stools

• Abdominal pain

Signs of bleeding in the brain:

If you have any of these, you need to get treatment right away.

Can a pulmonary embolism be prevented?

Because pulmonary embolism (PE) is often caused by a blood clot that originally formed in the legs, and because it is often difficult to detect a DVT before problems start, the prevention of DVTs is key in the prevention of PE. A healthy lifestyle is one key to PE prevention. It includes such things as:

• Engaging in regular exercise

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Eating a balanced diet

• Taking medicines as prescribed

• Not smoking

Treatment to prevent DVTs includes:

Noninvasive mechanical measures

Ways to prevent DVT without medicine include:

• Compression stockings (elastic stockings that squeeze or compress the veins and prevent blood from flowing backward)

• Pneumatic compression devices (sleeves on the legs that are connected to a machine that provides alternating pressure on the legs to keep blood moving)

• Getting up and moving as soon as possible after surgery or illness. Movement can help keep clots from forming by stimulating blood circulation.

Medicine

Anticoagulants and aspirin are often given to help prevent DVT.

Many people remain at risk for developing DVTs for a period after they are either discharged from the hospital. It is important that treatment to prevent DVTs continue until the risk has been resolved, usually about 3 to 6 months.

Key points about pulmonary embolisms

• A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blood clot that develops in a blood vessel elsewhere in the body (often the leg), travels to an artery in the lung, and suddenly forms a blockage of the artery.

• Abnormal blood clots can form due to problems such as “sluggish” blood flow through the veins, an abnormality in clot forming factors, and/or an injury to the blood vessel wall.

• A wide variety of conditions and risk factors have been linked to PEs.

• Sudden shortness of breath is the most common symptom of a PE.

• PE is often difficult to diagnose because the signs and symptoms of PE are a lot like those of many other conditions and diseases. Imaging tests and blood tests are used to look for a PE.

• An important aspect of treating a PE is preventing additional clots. Medicines, filters to keep clots from getting to the lungs, and surgery are used to treat PEs.

• A PE, particularly a large PE or many clots, can quickly cause serious life-threatening consequences and death.

Keep Blood Clots Out Of Legs And Lungs

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See a Premier Physician Network provider near you.

You know that it might be dangerous to sit too long in a car or stay in bed for a long time without moving, but why? One important reason is that inactivity increases your risk of developing a
deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Simply put, a DVT is a blood clot in a deep vein of your leg, pelvis or arm.

Some of the most common reasons for a blood clot to form in the leg veins are:

• Damage to a vein from surgery or injury
• Sitting during a long trip in a car or plane
• Staying in bed for an extended time because of illness or surgery

A DVT doesn’t cause a heart attack or stroke, but it can break loose and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs. It is the most common cause of
pulmonary embolism, a blood clot in the lungs that can be deadly. If the clot is small and you receive timely treatment, you can recover from the embolism without permanent damage. However, a large clot
can stop blood from reaching the lungs and other organs and cause death if not treated in time.

Deep Vein Thrombosis Symptoms

DVTs don’t always have symptoms. Signs that may occur include:

• Warmth and tenderness over the vein
• Swelling
• Pain when you walk or stand
• Skin redness

Seek medical attention if you have these symptoms. Quick action may prevent the clot from progressing to a pulmonary embolism.

A DVT doesn’t cause a heart attack or stroke, but it can break loose and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs.

With pulmonary embolism, only half of people have any symptoms at all. If symptoms occur, they can include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, anxiety, fainting, low blood pressure, or coughing up blood.

Risk Factors For Deep Vein Thrombosis

Almost anyone can have a DVT, but some people are more likely than others to experience a vein clot. In addition to a vein injury or being immobile for long periods, the following factors add to your risk of developing a DVT:

• Being overweight or obese
• Having a blood-clotting disorder
• Being age 60 or older
• Experiencing a rise in estrogen from pregnancy, birth control pills, or hormone replacement therapy
• Having a previous blood clot, varicose veins, heart failure, or previous heart attack
• Having lung disease, inflammatory bowel disease, lupus, or cancer
• Paralysis
• Smoking

Risk factors for pulmonary embolism are similar to those of DVT. About 30 percent of people who have had a DVT or pulmonary embolism are at risk for another episode.

Treatment

To diagnose DVT and pulmonary embolism, your doctor will evaluate your symptoms, do a physical exam and perhaps order blood tests or special imaging tests such as an
ultrasound. Treatment for both conditions includes taking medicine to break up blood clots in the short term or taking blood thinners long term to make formation of new clots less likely. Sometimes a filter
can be placed in the large vein that returns blood from the body’s extremities to catch any clots before they reach the lungs and heart.

In the most severe cases of pulmonary embolism, doctors can surgically remove the clot in a procedure called pulmonary embolectomy. Additionally,
percutaneous thrombectomy can be performed to remove or dissolve the clot by using a long, thin, hollow tube (catheter) that is threaded through the blood vessel to the site of the embolism,
guided by X-ray.

Dr. Sandeep Gupta explains how blood clots are treated.

Click play to watch the video or read video transcript.

Blood clots are typically treated with blood thinners or anticoagulants. In addition to anticoagulants, we would also support them with compression stockings and most commonly preventing a blood clot is the most emphasized modality, and prevention is more important than actually treating them.

Complications of DVT

For some people, a DVT can have long-lasting effects:

• Chronic venous insufficiency may occur, meaning that the vein with the clot no longer works
  well. With this long-term condition, blood collects in the vein instead of flowing back to the heart. Common symptoms are pain and swelling in the leg.
• Post-thrombotic syndrome may also develop following a blood clot in a leg vein. It is a long-term problem with pain, swelling, redness, ulcers, and sores that make it difficult
  to walk and do normal activities.

Prevention

Steps to prevent both DVTs and pulmonary embolisms include:

• Wiggling your toes and moving your ankles if you’ve been sitting a long time, such as when you travel
• Getting up and walking as soon as possible after surgery or a long illness
• Wearing compression stockings (elastic stockings that squeeze or compress the veins and prevent blood from flowing backward)
• Using pneumatic compression devices (sleeves on the legs that are connected to a machine that provides alternating pressure on the legs to keep blood moving)
• Taking blood thinners (anticoagulants) to
  prevent new clots from forming, if you’ve already had one or more clots. These medicines also may be prescribed following some surgeries.
• Maintaining a healthy weight and being physically active

Dr. Sandeep Gupta offers tips for preventing blood clots.

Click play to watch the video or read video transcript.

It is important to reduce the risk of developing a blood clot, especially during travel. The simplest thing would be to exercise your lower leg muscles. The most simplest exercise would be to raise your toes, point your toes towards your head, stretching your calves, and then relax, and then repeat as often as you can remember to do so. If you’re in an air travel, getting up for just walking down the aisle would be an important prevention. If you specifically know your risk to be high, you can take additional preventative measures, such as wear compression stockings. You can even take prophylactic blood thinners if you’ve had blood clots before.

It’s easy to get the care you need.

See a Premier Physician Network provider near you.

Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; Medline Plus; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Sandeep Gupta, MD, Middletown Cardiology Associates

Blood Clots and Thrombosis | Inova

Blood Clots

Blood clotting is a normal process that occurs in the body to prevent bleeding. The body makes blood clots and then breaks them down. Under certain circumstances, the body may be unable to break down a clot, which may result in a serious health condition.

Abnormal blood clotting in the veins is related to a combination of several problems such as “sluggish” blood flow through the veins, an abnormality in clot forming factors or an injury to the blood vessel wall.

Blood clots can form in arteries or veins. Clots formed in veins are called venous clots. Veins of the legs can be classified as superficial veins (close to the surface of the skin) or deep veins (located near the bone and surrounded by muscle). Pooling, or stasis, of blood in the legs and subsequent clotting can result in varicose veins. Clots in the legs may break loose and travel to the lungs, causing pulmonary clots (or pulmonary embolism) that can result in respiratory distress, pain, and in extreme cases, death.

Thrombosis

Thrombosis occurs when a blood clot blocks arteries from carrying oxygenated blood from the heart (arterial thrombosis) or veins from carrying oxygen-depleted blood back to the heart (venous thrombosis).

Venous thrombosis can obstruct the veins or damage their one-way valves, allowing blood to pool, which causes chronic pain, swelling, skin discoloration and skin ulcers.

Arterial thrombosis may result from arteriosclerosis, which involves hardening of the arteries where fatty or calcium deposits cause the arterial walls to thicken. This can lead to plaque instability and risk for rupture followed by thrombus.

When arterial thrombosis occurs in the coronary arteries (arteries that branch from the aorta to provide blood to the heart muscle), it can lead to heart attacks. When arterial thrombosis occurs in the brain circulation, it can lead to strokes or lack of oxygen to other organs.

6 Warning Symptoms of Blood Clot in Legs — Physicians Vein Clinics

How Dangerous Is a Blood Clot In the Legs?

A blood clot deep within the leg can be dangerous if it breaks off and travels through the veins to the heart and lungs. A clot in an artery, which carries oxygen to cells throughout the body, can prevent proper blood circulation and cause life-threatening emergencies such as a heart attack or stroke.

Every year up to 900,000 Americans are diagnosed with DVT and pulmonary embolism (a venous clot that affects the lungs). Approximately 100,000 people die of this type of blood clot annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source.

If you are worried that you might have a blood clot, contact your doctor immediately.

Warning Signs of a Blood Clot In Your Legs

Blood clots can have various symptoms including:

• Swelling, which can develop in the exact spot where blood clots form or it causes swelling throughout the legs.

• Pain – Leg pain is a common symptom of DVT. The pain can range from a dull ache to intense pain.

• Tenderness

• A warm sensation. You might feel the skin around your legs feel warmer than in other areas.

• Changing color in your legs. Your legs might have redness or feel itchy.

• Leg cramps

Depending on the size of the clots, you may not have noticeable symptoms. You might only have minor leg swelling without much pain. However, if left untreated, the clot can enlarge and become swollen and extremely painful.

What Are The Risk Factors?

You might have more chances of getting a blood clot in your legs if you are:

• Over the age of 60

• Sitting or standing for prolonged hours. Staying in the same position for long hours where muscles are not forced to contract. Muscle contraction is important for blood flow.

• Experiencing a sedentary lifestyle.

• Obese. Maintaining a healthy weight range is important. Excess weight can put additional pressure on your leg veins and pelvis.

• Pregnant. With increased weight, increased blood volume, and hormonal changes, pregnancy is a major risk for blood clots. Women with an inherited clotting disorder are especially at risk. You still have a risk of blood clots from pregnancy up to 6 weeks after delivery.

• Have a family history of blood clots.

• Smoking

• Taking certain birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.

• Had a recent hospital stay related to a major surgery.

• Have cancer. Some forms of cancer increase substances in the blood and cause the formation of blood clots. Some cancer treatments can also increase the chances of blood clots.

When To See a Vein Doctor

According to the CDC Trusted Source, almost 50% of patients with DVT have no symptoms. Therefore, if you think you are at risk for blood clots, you should schedule a screening with one of our providers.

You should call local emergency services immediately if you are experiencing any of the following:

• sudden shortness of breath

• chest pressure

• difficulty breathing, seeing, or speaking

How To Prevent a Blood Clot In The Legs

1. Avoid Long Hours of Sitting or Standing

Sitting or standing for extended periods of time is a major cause of deep vein thrombosis. Move or flex your ankles and knees every 30 minutes to increase the blood flow.

2. Lead an Active Lifestyle

Having a sedentary lifestyle can negatively affect your leg circulation and lead to the development of blood clots in the legs.

If you are pregnant, it’s especially important to keep moving. Pregnancy puts additional pressure on the leg veins due to increased blood volume, increased weight and hormonal changes. Try to go on regular walks or do exercise with low intensity such as swimming, jogging or yoga. Sleeping on your left side can also help promote blood circulation during pregnancy.

Read More: 5 popular exercises that are good for vein health

3. Drinking More Water

When your body becomes dehydrated, it holds fluid and causes swelling in the legs, feet, and ankles. If you travel or fly for long hours, remember to drink enough water and avoid drinks that dehydrate the body such as caffeine, alcohol or soda.

4. Wearing Compression Stockings

Compression stockings support leg circulation and help avoid blood blots in your legs. We advise having your compression stockings prescribed by a vein specialist.

Read More: All you need to know about compression stocking

5. Elevating Your Legs Before Sleeping

Try to elevate your legs before you sleep to help promote blood flow after a long day of sitting or standing. Elevating your legs above your hips is most effective.

6. Adjusting Your Diet

“You are what you eat.” Managing your diet can make a positive impact on your leg health and prevent blood clots from forming.

Read More:

Free Screening For Blood Clots In Legs (DVT)

It’s best to consult a vein doctor or a vein specialist to receive an early diagnosis of your leg health. At Physicians Vein Clinics, our board-certified vein doctors have years of training and experience to treat deep vein thrombosis or prevent its formation. Book a free screening today or call us at (888) -782-8346 to have your questions answered.

Find a vein clinic near me:

Blood Clots | Hypercoagulability | MedlinePlus

What is a blood clot?

A blood clot is mass of blood that forms when platelets, proteins, and cells in the blood stick together. When you get hurt, your body forms a blood clot to stop the bleeding. After the bleeding stops and healing takes place, your body usually breaks down and removes the blood clot. But sometimes the blood clots form where they shouldn’t, your body makes too many blood clots or abnormal blood clots, or the blood clots don’t break down like they should. These blood clots can be dangerous and may cause other health problems.

Blood clots can form in, or travel to, the blood vessels in the limbs, lungs, brain, heart, and kidneys. The types of problems blood clots can cause will depend on where they are:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the lower leg, thigh, or pelvis. It can block a vein and cause damage to your leg.
• A pulmonary embolism can happen when a DVT breaks off and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs. It can damage your lungs and prevent your other organs from getting enough oxygen.
• Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare blood clot in the venous sinuses in your brain. Normally the venous sinuses drain blood from your brain. CVST blocks the blood from draining and can cause a hemorrhagic stroke.
• Blood clots in other parts of the body can cause problems such as an ischemic stroke, a heart attack, kidney problems, kidney failure, and pregnancy-related problems.

Who is at risk for blood clots?

Certain factors can raise the risk of blood clots:

What are the symptoms of blood clots?

The symptoms for blood clots can be different, depending on where the blood clot is:

• In the abdomen: Abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting
• In an arm or leg: Sudden or gradual pain, swelling, tenderness, and warmth
• In the lungs: Shortness of breath, pain with deep breathing, rapid breathing, and increased heart rate
• In the brain: Trouble speaking, vision problems, seizures, weakness on one side of the body, and sudden severe headache
• In the heart: Chest pain, sweating, shortness of breath, and pain in the left arm

How are blood clots diagnosed?

Your health care provider may use many tools to diagnose blood clots:

• A physical exam
• A medical history
• Blood tests, including a D-dimer test
• Imaging tests, such as
  • Ultrasound
  • X-rays of the veins (venography) or blood vessels (angiography) that are taken after you get an injection of special dye. The dye shows up on the x-ray and allows the provider to see how the blood flows.
  • CT Scan

What are the treatments for blood clots?

Treatments for blood clots depend on where the blood clot is located and how severe it is. Treatments may include

• Blood thinners
• Other medicines, including thrombolytics. Thrombolytics are medicines which dissolve blood clots. They are usually used where the blood clots are severe.
• Surgery and other procedures to remove the blood clots

Can blood clots be prevented?

You may be able to help prevent blood clots by

• Moving around as soon as possible after having been confined to your bed, such as after surgery, illness, or injury
• Getting up and moving around every few hours when you have to sit for long periods of time, for example if you are on a long flight or car trip
• Regular physical activity
• Not smoking
• Staying at a healthy weight

Some people at high risk may need to take blood thinners to prevent blood clots.

Blood Clot In Leg Treatment Hospital, Deep Vein Thrombosis Leg Michigan

In thrombosis, a blood vessel is blocked by a blood clot (thrombus) so that little or no blood flows through it. Blood clots are mainly formed in the veins of the legs and pelvis. These blood vessels collect blood from the feet, legs and pelvis and transport it back to the heart. Deep vein thrombosis must be treated immediately by a doctor.

Deep Vein Thrombosis Leg Symptoms

• Nagging, gnawing pain
• Redness or blue discoloration of the skin
• Feeling of tension and swelling

(Deep Vein Thrombosis) Blood Clot In Leg Treatment

Highest priority is:

• Prevent the thrombosis from increasing
• Removing the blood clot
• Prevent a pulmonary embolism
• Prevent post-thrombotic syndrome (permanent damage to the vascular valves).

Treatment strategy consists of:

• Simple measures such as correct positioning or mobilization and compression therapy
• Medicines that thin the blood, such a heparin
• Thrombolysis to break down the blood clot (thrombus)
• Sometimes surgery to remove the blood clot
• Compression treatment (compression stockings)

At Advanced Vein and Vascular Management Michigan, dedicated specialists have extensive training and experience in vascular conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clot in leg treatment.

What makes deep vein thrombosis or blood clot in leg treatment at Advanced Vein and Vascular Michigan unique?

• Specialized dedicated care from multiple specialists – At our center, a comprehensive dedicated program is available to manage venous (vein) disease. Our team is a specialized team that includes board-certified vascular medicine specialists who manage Deep Vein Thrombosis and related conditions with non-invasive therapies. If you feel that you need more dedicated and advanced care, our vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists can treat such blockages with minimal invasive procedures.
• Well recognized vascular testing -Our vascular technologies help diagnose deep vein thrombosis or blood clot in the leg using the latest imaging tools and specialized techniques; our labs meet the highest standards for the ultrasound and other technologies.
• Latest advances in minimally invasive treatment – With research, our specialists have access to the most advanced therapies for DVT and other vein conditions. We are experienced in procedures that combine miniature devices with clot-busting medications to treat deep veins safely. Minimal invasive procedures are our specialty, which causes less pain and offer a speedy recovery.

90,000 Deep vein thrombosis: prevention and treatment

Deep vein thrombosis is one of the most serious complications of chronic venous insufficiency. As a rule, thrombosis (that is, blockage of a blood vessel by a thrombus) develops in advanced cases of venous disease.

Most often, blood clots form in the veins of the legs and pelvis. The resulting blood clot (thrombus) blocks a blood vessel and disrupts blood circulation, but the most dangerous situation develops if a thrombus breaks off from the vein wall.The risk of this is especially high if deep veins are involved, in which a thrombus forms in a few days and is loosely attached to the venous wall. After detachment, a blood clot with blood flow can enter the lungs, where it clogs the vessels. This condition is called pulmonary thromboembolism and is life-threatening in most cases.

According to statistics, in old age, men and women have approximately the same risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. At a young age, mainly women suffer from venous thrombosis.

The provoking factors of this can be:

• existing venous disease;
• disorders of the blood coagulation system;
• taking hormonal drugs;
• pregnancy;

90,011 smoking;

• overweight;
• surgical interventions;
• sedentary lifestyle.

Blood flow in the veins is much slower than in the arteries, so blood clots form in them.Basically, thrombosis affects the deep veins of the leg and thigh.

In some cases, a thrombus can form without provoking factors:

• in case of prolonged inactivity or with frequent and long flights;
• in case of damage to the wall of a blood vessel;
• with increased blood clotting.

Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities

The first symptom in the development of thrombosis in the veins of the lower extremities is, as a rule, pain when sitting or moving.However, in some cases, the disease can be asymptomatic.

The most common symptoms of thrombosis are:

• Drawing pains in the legs.
• Discoloration (redness or bluish tint) of specific areas of the skin.
• Swelling, feeling of heaviness in the legs.
• Increased limb temperature.

The most significant is the last symptom. It is difficult to measure the temperature of the leg separately, but its change can be felt when touched.Also, the person himself can feel this change as a heat in the leg. If a distinct warming of the leg is detected, it is necessary to immediately contact a specialist, since if untreated, thrombosis can lead to serious complications.

Diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities

Since deep vein thrombosis can have very serious consequences, but at the same time develop without symptoms, it is extremely important for any suspicion of the development of the disease to immediately consult a specialist:

• vascular surgeon / phlebologist
• General practitioner

A set of methods is used to make a diagnosis: collection of data on the patient’s life and the development of the disease, examination and palpation of the affected area, laboratory (blood test, etc.)) and instrumental (vascular ultrasound) examination methods. Ultrasound scans can detect structural changes in the walls of blood vessels and help in choosing a treatment plan.

Treatment of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities

There are two main methods of deep vein thrombosis treatment – medical and surgical. Both of them are aimed at preventing the development of pulmonary embolism (the most serious complication of thrombosis), preventing necrosis, restoring the lumen of the vessel and blood circulation.

In the treatment of this disease, bed rest is necessary, therefore, treatment should be carried out in a hospital.

The medical method of treatment includes the use of drugs that reduce blood clotting. In addition, drugs are used that relieve inflammation of the walls of the veins and increase their tone. Along with drugs, the patient must be prescribed the use of compression hosiery, which exerts mechanical pressure on the veins, reduces their diameter, accelerates venous blood flow and improves the return of venous blood to the heart.The pressure distribution with a maximum value at the ankle level and decreasing towards the top is called a decreasing pressure gradient. This distribution of pressure is physiological and helps to accelerate blood flow, prevent venous stasis and edema.

In case of thrombosis, it is necessary to use compression hosiery of the III class of compression. Medi has developed a compression hosiery that meets all customer needs. It delivers precisely grade-specific pressure with a precisely calibrated descending gradient and is of exceptional medical efficiency.In addition, it was created using a number of innovative technologies, thanks to which it has high air permeability, optimal thermoregulation and bacteriostatic properties.

For example, durable and elastic universal compression hosiery of the mediven plus model range, including models of the 3rd compression class, not only has all these qualities, but also has a large number of types, sizes and colors.

The surgical method of treatment consists in the installation of special cava filters, which retain the detached blood clots.It is also possible to surgically remove a thrombus, the affected area of ​​the vessel, or ligation of the great veins.

Prevention of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities

The development of deep vein thrombosis can be prevented by taking measures to improve blood circulation in the lower extremities and by reducing the risk factors for blood clots. To do this, it is necessary to ensure regular physical activity (playing sports), use comfortable shoes, improve the diet, and give up bad habits.One of the most effective methods is the use of compression hosiery, which improves venous return from the lower extremities.

Daily use of compression hosiery and other measures to prevent thrombosis can significantly reduce the risk of thrombosis. If there is a genetic predisposition to varicose veins or there is no possibility to reduce risk factors, compression hosiery is used in combination with drug treatment and medical supervision.

If you have a predisposition to varicose veins or are at risk, consult a specialist to find the optimal course of prevention. Choose one of the most effective methods of thrombosis prevention in the medi online store catalog – a wide range of products will allow you to choose a product for any need.

Venous thrombosis – what is it, symptoms

Venous thrombosis is referred to as acute diseases. There are many reasons for its occurrence, the main ones are a violation of the structure of the venous wall during surgery, trauma, radiation and chemotherapy, slowing down the blood flow rate, and increased blood clotting.

For reasons of occurrence of venous thrombosis are divided into several types:

• congestive (typical for varicose veins of the lower extremities due to blood pressure on the veins)
• inflammatory (appear after previous infections, trauma, injections, immunoallergic processes)
• thrombosis in violation of the hemostasis system (accompanying oncology, metabolic diseases, liver pathology, thrombophilia)

Vein thrombosis can also be divided according to localization:

• thrombosis superficial (saphenous) veins of the lower extremities (in clinical practice it is designated as thrombophlebitis , is a frequent complication of varicose veins – inflammation in the walls of the veins increases the tendency to form blood clots)
• deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities

Characteristic symptoms of superficial vein thrombophlebitis:

• Constant drawing, burning pain along the thrombosed veins, which can restrict movement in the affected limb
• Redness of the skin in the area of ​​the affected vein
• Local (local) temperature rise in the area of ​​the affected vein
• Hypersensitivity in the affected area of ​​the limb
• Moderate swelling in the area of ​​the ankles and lower third of the legs
• Dilation of small saphenous veins

Thrombus formation can begin anywhere in the venous system, but most often in the deep veins of the leg.

Typical symptoms seen in deep vein thrombosis include:

1. Edema of the whole limb or part of it
2. Change in skin color (development of cyanosis – cyanosis
   skin of the lower extremities) or strengthening of the pattern of the saphenous veins
3. Bursting pain in the limb

Blood clots are usually localized in the veins of the legs, thighs and pelvis. A person may not be aware that they have a blood clot until the clot causes significant obstruction to blood flow or particles of the clot break off.With the development of thrombosis in the veins of the lower extremities, edema and pain in the leg may appear.

Venous thrombosis is very dangerous and poses a great threat to human life and health. A blood clot formed in the deep veins of the leg can travel with blood to the pulmonary artery, causing partial or complete disruption of blood flow in it (this condition is called pulmonary embolism). Venous thrombosis does not always pass without a trace, and after a thrombosis, a person may develop the so-called post-thrombotic disease, which manifests itself in constant edema of the limb and the formation of trophic ulcers.

Venous thrombosis and its most dangerous complication – pulmonary embolism (PE) – are the most frequent companions of many patients in medical and surgical hospitals.

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a severe life-threatening disease in which there is a complete or partial closure of the lumen of the pulmonary artery by a thrombus. As a rule, PE is a complication of deep vein thrombosis of the legs.

Signs observed in PE are varied and not very specific.

Most common:

• Dyspnea of ​​varying severity (from mild to severe)
• Chest pain (in most cases “pleural”, aggravated by breathing)
• Hemoptysis is a rare symptom, the body temperature may rise, later a cough may join (as a rule, these signs are observed with a small embolism of small branches of the pulmonary artery)
• Shock or a sharp decrease in pressure with the development of massive lesions of the pulmonary artery, impaired consciousness may be noted

If you find the symptoms described above, you should immediately seek medical help from the nearest medical institution!

Sources:

1. Kirienko A.I., Panchenko E.P., Andriyashkin V.V. Venous thrombosis in the practice of the therapist and surgeon.-M: Planida, 2012.-336s.
2. Kirienko et al. . “Russian clinical guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolic complications”, journal Phlebology 2015; 4 (2): 3-52
3. Ioskevich N.N. Practical Guide to Clinical Surgery: Diseases of the chest, blood vessels, spleen and endocrine glands. Minsk. High School. 2002. 479 s.

SARU.ENO.19.06.1021

90,000 symptoms, treatment, prevention at home 9,0001 DVT is a very serious disease. Tell your doctor right away if you experience symptoms of DVT or go to the nearest emergency room. A healthcare professional can assess your symptoms and determine if there is a problem.

Treatment of vein thrombosis of the lower extremities is aimed at preventing clot growth. In addition, it can help prevent pulmonary embolism, significantly reducing the risk of even more blood clots.Perhaps drug and surgical treatment of the disease.

Medicines. Your doctor may prescribe blood thinners such as Heparin, Warfarin, Enoxaparin, or Fondaparinux. They make it harder for blood to clot, reduce the size of existing blood clots, and reduce the likelihood that new clots will form. If blood thinners don’t help, or if severe DVT develops, your doctor may use thrombolytic drugs. They lead to the destruction (dissolution) of the clots.The drugs are administered intravenously.

Compression stockings. If you are at high risk of developing DVT, wearing compression stockings can reduce abnormal leg swelling, reducing the risk of blood clots. Compression stockings cover the area just below the knee or reach up to the thigh. Your doctor may recommend that you wear them daily.

Kava filters. You may need to place a filter in a large abdominal vein called the vena cava if you are unable to take blood thinners.This form of treatment helps prevent pulmonary embolism by preventing clots from entering the lungs. But setting filters is also a risk. If left on for too long, they can cause DVT. Filters should be used for a short period until the risk of thromboembolism decreases and blood thinners can be used.

Surgical treatment of DVT. A doctor may suggest surgery to remove a blood clot in your leg. This is usually only recommended for very large blood clots or blood clots that are causing serious problems such as tissue damage.During a surgical thrombectomy or surgery to remove a blood clot, the surgeon will make an incision in the blood vessel. It will find and remove the clot, then repair the blood vessel and tissue. In some cases, doctors may use a small inflation balloon to keep the blood vessel open while they remove the clot. When the clot is found and removed, the ball is removed with it.

Surgery is not without risk, so many doctors will only use this treatment in severe cases.Risks include tissue infection, blood vessel damage, and excessive bleeding.

Signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis

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

DVT may be associated with diseases that affect blood clotting.A blood clot in your legs can also form if you do not move for a long time, for example, after surgery or an accident. But walking extremely long distances can also lead to blood clots.

Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition because blood clots in your veins can travel through the bloodstream and become lodged in your lungs, blocking blood flow (pulmonary embolism). However, pulmonary embolism can occur without signs 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 begins in the calf and can be felt as cramping or soreness.
• Red or discolored skin on the leg.
• Sensation of warmth in the affected leg.

Deep vein thrombosis can occur without noticeable symptoms.

When to see a doctor

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

Seek emergency medical attention if signs or symptoms of pulmonary embolism (PE), a life-threatening complication of deep vein thrombosis, occur.

Call 103

Warning signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism include:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort that worsens with deep breaths or coughing.
• Feeling dizzy or dizzy or fainting
• Rapid heart rate
• Rapid 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 a vein from surgery or trauma, or inflammation from infection or trauma.

Risk factors

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

• Age. 90 096 The risk of DVT increases at age 60, although it can occur at any age.
• Sitting for extended periods, such as while driving or flying. When your legs remain stationary 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 of the legs if the calf muscles are not used for a long time.
• Injury or surgery. Trauma to a vein or surgery may increase the risk of blood clots.
• Pregnancy. Pregnancy increases pressure in the veins of the pelvis and legs. Women with a hereditary bleeding disorder are at particular risk. The risk of blood clots from pregnancy can persist for up to six weeks after the baby is born.
• Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) or hormone replacement therapy. Both factors can increase the blood’s ability to clot.
• Exposure to drugs or chemicals. Certain drugs can cause blood clots. Consult a physician before use.
• Overweight or obese. Being overweight increases pressure in the veins of the pelvis and legs.
• Smoking. Smoking affects blood clotting and blood circulation, which may increase the risk of DVT.
• Cancer. Certain forms of cancer increase blood clotting substances. Certain forms of cancer treatments 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 mild pulmonary embolism are more noticeable.
• Inflammatory bowel disease. Bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis increase the risk of DVT.
• Personal or family history of DVT or PE. If you or someone in your household 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. By itself, an inherited disorder may not cause blood clots unless it is associated with one or more other risk factors.
• Risk factor unknown. Occasionally, 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). LE is a potentially life-threatening complication associated with DVT. It happens when a blood vessel in your lung is blocked by a blood clot that enters the 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 fainting, and coughing up blood can occur with PE.
• Postphlebitic syndrome. Blood clot injury to veins reduces blood flow to affected areas, causing leg pain and swelling, skin discoloration, and skin ulcers.
• Treatment complications. Complications can occur from blood thinners used to treat DVT.Bleeding is a side effect of anticoagulants. It is important to have blood tests done regularly when taking these medications.

Prevention

Measures to prevent deep vein thrombosis include the following:

• Don’t sit still. If you underwent surgery or were on bed rest for other reasons, try to get back to work as soon as possible. If you sit for a while, do not cross your legs, as this can block blood flow.If you are traveling a long distance 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, knead your shins. Do some exercise. Try raising and lowering your heels while keeping your toes on the floor, then lift your toes with 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.

Deep vein thrombosis

See a doctor immediately

In case of suspicion of deep vein thrombosis, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor.

Most often, blood clots form in the veins of the pelvis and legs.These blood vessels collect blood from the lower body and transport it back to the heart. Deep vein thrombosis requires immediate medical attention.

With deep vein thrombosis, there is a very high risk of developing pulmonary embolism. A blood clot can become displaced, enter the pulmonary artery with the bloodstream, and block it. If the same happens in the superficial veins, the blood clot moves in the direction of the deep veins, which is less dangerous.

Thrombus formation

Deep vein thrombosis symptoms

Most common symptoms

• Aching, pulling pain
• Redness or cyanosis of the skin
• Pressure and swelling

Thrombosis can occur in the vessels of the groin, thigh, popliteal fossa, lower leg or foot.It is especially painful to stand and walk in such cases.

How does deep vein thrombosis develop

A blood clot can form if

• the blood flow slows down, for example, during prolonged bed rest or when flying long distances
• the wall of the blood vessel is changed
• blood clotting is increased.

The speed of blood flow in the veins is lower than in the arteries, so thrombosis develops in the veins much more often.Deep vein thrombosis most often develops in the deep veins of the leg and thigh.

Diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis

Rapid diagnosis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis is necessary to prevent the development of pulmonary embolism. Examination of the tender area and laboratory blood tests can confirm the diagnosis of thrombosis. Before starting treatment, the doctor may also use Doppler ultrasound and duplex ultrasound to accurately localize the blood clot.

Who is at risk of developing deep vein thrombosis?

Older men and women have approximately the same risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. At a younger age, deep vein thrombosis is more likely to affect women than men. Reasons:

• existing vein diseases
• violation of the blood coagulation system
• taking medications
• pregnancy
• smoking and overweight
• surgical interventions
• prolonged bed rest
• high physical activity

How can you prevent the development of deep vein thrombosis (prevention of thrombosis)

The combination of medication and physical exposure is the standard for the prevention of thrombosis in Germany.The doctor chooses the drug, dosage and duration of treatment.

• The purpose of physical stimulation is to improve venous outflow. There are various ways and means to achieve this goal:
• Medical compression hosiery for the prevention of thrombosis (standardized compression)
• Bandaging with elastic bandages (non-standardized compression)
• Adjustable non-extensible compression bandages

Early mobilization is also used as a therapeutic and prophylactic measure and the raised position of the legs

Who should be contacted for deep vein thrombosis

• General practitioner
• Phlebologist
• Inpatient care – attending physician and medical staff

How is deep vein thrombosis treated?

Many patients may not even notice serious thrombosis.This is very dangerous because the blood clot that caused deep vein thrombosis can become dislodged. If it reaches the lung, it can cause life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

Priority goals in the treatment of thrombosis:

• Stopping the growth of a thrombus
• Removing a thrombus
• Prevention of pulmonary embolism
• Prevention of post-thrombotic syndrome (irreversible damage to venous valves).

Treatment strategy includes:

• Basic measures such as mobilization and compression therapy
• Anticoagulant medications to thin the blood, such as heparin
• Thrombolysis to destroy a blood clot (thrombus)
• Possible surgery to remove a blood clot

Compression therapy

A patient with diagnosed deep vein thrombosis is prescribed compression hosiery along with drug treatment.They exert mechanical pressure on the veins, due to which their diameter decreases and the rate of return of blood to the heart increases. Compression should have a physiological gradient: it should be maximum at the level of the ankles and decrease towards the knee. Subsequently, the doctor will check the degree of blood flow disturbance and recommend whether the compression treatment should be continued or whether it can be discontinued.

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We wish you a healthy trip and come back refreshed.

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90,000 Is it realistic to feel and understand that you have a blood clot?

About what thrombosis is, how to define it and whether it is possible to protect oneself from this serious disease, “KV” talk with the head of the department of vascular surgery of GAUZ “MKDTs”, doctor of medical sciences, doctor – vascular surgeon of the highest category, associate professor, member Society of Vascular Surgeons of the Russian Federation, European Society for Vascular Surgery by Roman Bredikhin.

– A thrombus is a blood clot consisting of blood cells such as platelets and erythrocytes, which appears in a particular vessel. For example, when we cut our finger, blood comes out of the cut. After a while, it coagulates, and a blood clot forms – in fact, the same blood clot. This ancient mechanism is, on the one hand, protective, designed so that we do not bleed out in case of accidental injury or injury. On the other hand, this mechanism is pathological, if the blood coagulates in the lumen of the vessel, forming a kind of “plug” that prevents the normal blood flow.

Almost every organ has its own vessels – arteries and veins. Therefore, depending on the vessel in which a thrombus is formed, the corresponding organ begins to suffer. If a clot forms in the arteries, then the blood supply to the organ is disrupted and oxygen starvation or ischemia occurs, if in the veins, then, on the contrary, the organ’s plethora, since the outflow of blood is disturbed, that is, the blood cannot normally flow towards the heart.
A blood clot can form in the vessels of the intestines, kidneys, arms, legs – almost everywhere.And, accordingly, there will be problems with these bodies. The most dangerous are blood clots in the arteries, especially in coronary arteries (they feed the heart) or sleepy ones (they feed the brain), since in this case a myocardial infarction or cerebral stroke occurs. Blood clots in the veins of the lower extremities are no less dangerous.

– Which blood clots are most dangerous?
– In general, venous thrombi are slightly less dangerous than arterial ones. But among venous blood clots there are also very dangerous ones: these are blood clots that form in the veins of the legs, since they can break off and migrate towards the right side of the heart, causing pulmonary embolism.The insidiousness of these blood clots is that practically healthy people often die from them. In general, it must be said that more than 55% of the world’s population die from a heart attack, stroke and pulmonary embolism, so a blood clot in a vessel is very, very dangerous.

– Is it possible to somehow notice the presence of a blood clot in the veins of the lower extremities?
– When a person notices a blood clot, it is often too late. It is easier to prevent thrombosis than to treat it later. For example, a very common cause of thrombosis is varicose veins in the legs.If you have varicose veins, you should see a vascular surgeon or phlebologist. Secondly, if bruises appear on your legs, this is also a prerequisite for the formation of a blood clot, because this is a violation of the blood coagulation system. This can lead to thrombosis.

– What does a person feel if a blood clot has formed in his legs?
– If this blood clot forms in the saphenous veins, the vein changes color: the skin above it turns red, and the vein itself becomes dense and very painful.The pain appears because the blood clot is always accompanied by inflammation. In this case, you need to urgently run to the doctor or call an ambulance. If a blood clot has formed in deep veins, then the first sign is leg edema. It is necessary to measure the volume of the leg with a measuring tape. In the case of thrombosis, the difference in symmetrical parts of the leg will be from 1 – 2 to 10 – 15 cm.Venous edema in 95% of cases occurs on one leg, and not on two, because it is very typical for venous thrombosis that one leg is normal, and the other swells.

– Is it true that thrombosis is asymptomatic?
– Unfortunately, true. Deep vein thrombosis in the initial stage is often asymptomatic.

– Is it possible to provoke thrombosis, for example, sitting for many hours on an airplane or in a motionless position?
– Yes. When we sit in a stationary position, we have two important risk factors for thrombosis – compression of the veins and slowing blood flow. In addition, dehydration or thickening of the blood, the third factor in thrombosis, often occurs on the plane.When we sit, the most important mechanism of venous outflow does not work for us – the contraction of the muscles in the legs, since blood is pumped through the veins in the legs by the muscles. When we contract the calf or thigh muscles, we help the stagnant blood return to the heart. Industrial gymnastics will be very useful here: within one hour you need to get up and walk for at least five minutes.

– Who has blood clots more often – men or women?
– Given that women are more likely to have varicose veins and women become pregnant (another risk factor), there are more women with both deep and superficial vein thrombosis.The proportion is as follows: 60% are women, 40% are men, so the difference is not very big.

– On which leg do blood clots usually form?
– More often blood clots form on the left leg. According to statistics, 65% of blood clots are on the left leg, 35% on the right. This is due to the anatomical features of our body. On the left leg, deep veins are located under the arteries, and on the right leg, the opposite is true (this is called May-Turner syndrome). Therefore, on the left leg, the veins are somewhat compressed in any person.This is an additional risk factor. And, accordingly, when exposed to factors that provoke thrombosis (dehydration, immobilization, clotting disorders, etc.), the first to suffer is the leg where the vein is slightly compressed.

– What is the prevention of thrombosis?
– As for venous thrombi, the prevention is as follows.

Firstly, if you have varicose veins on your legs, then you definitely need to show them to a vascular surgeon or phlebologist. They can be a source of blood clot formation in them.Many people believe that if their veins are not bothering them, they should not be touched. This is mistake. Now there are many ways to remove veins in a day and save yourself from the risk of a blood clot.

Secondly, you must drink enough fluids to stay hydrated, and you should not be allowed to sit or stand for long periods at work or when traveling. As I said, every hour you need to move at least five minutes.
In addition, women should wear compression stockings during pregnancy, which apply special therapeutic pressure to the legs.

And fourthly, if you have any disease that you know about (and there are countless diseases that can cause thrombosis), you need to consult your doctor.

Prevention and treatment of thrombosis, restoration of blood vessels after coronavirus

After a coronavirus infection, unpleasant consequences often remain – weakness, headaches, anxiety, memory and attention loss, muscle pain. A quarter of people with coronavirus may develop blood vessel thrombosis.

What is thrombosis?

Thrombosis is the formation of a clot in a blood vessel – a thrombus. What is a blood clot? This is an accumulation of fibrin filaments in which platelets and erythrocytes are “entangled”. Most often, blood clots form in the veins of the lower leg, thigh, and pelvis.

Why do blood clots form in coronavirus?

For a long time, it was unclear why the coronavirus causes such a serious complication. An important discovery by biologists at Uppsala University clarified the situation.They found that the virus activates and strengthens the part of the immune system that is responsible for blood clotting. Immunity is increased to protect the body from the virus entering the bloodstream. But with a severe course of the disease, its hyperreactivity occurs. Then, along with viruses, the cells of the organism itself are damaged.

Thus, the circumstances that provoke the formation of blood clots in coronavirus infection are as follows:

• Increased blood clotting due to a change in the ratio between blood plasma proteins;
• During illness, the endothelium, the inner lining of the vessels, is damaged;
• Slow blood flow due to bed rest during hospitalization.

What are the risk groups for thrombosis?

People who have:

• large body weight;

90,011 over 60 years old;

• various oncological diseases;
• increased blood clotting;
• already had venous thrombosis in the past;
• cardiovascular diseases;

You need to be more careful about your health and people who lead a sedentary lifestyle after being in the hospital, especially in intensive care.

Signs of vein thrombosis

When a thrombus closes the lumen of the vessel, the outflow of blood from the leg is disturbed – edema appears. The higher the blood clot is (foot, lower leg, thigh), the more part of the leg swells.

Thrombosis is accompanied by a bluish skin tone, muscle stiffness, a feeling of distention and pain. People do not always pay attention if these signs are not very pronounced. But in vain! Even asymptomatic leg vein thrombosis is dangerous for its complications in the lungs, heart, and brain.

If you have had a coronavirus infection, and especially if you are at risk, carefully monitor your health. At the slightest suspicion of thrombosis, consult a doctor!

Possible complications of thrombosis

If we neglect the timely treatment of thrombosis, the disease can lead to a number of significant complications, among which are:

• myocardial infarction;
• circulatory disorders;
• pulmonary embolism;
• deep vein thrombosis of the legs with the development of gangrene.

Features of thrombosis of the lower extremities

Thrombosis of the vessels of the legs is not always possible to detect.

The disease often proceeds with almost no clinical manifestations. A blood clot can be in a vein for a long time. If it is small and does not block the lumen of the vessel, it can be difficult to make a diagnosis. Signs of thrombosis may not alert the patient and do not prompt them to seek medical help. Slight pain and heaviness in one leg, slight swelling go unnoticed.If the vessel lumen is incompletely blocked by a small thrombus, the disease can pass without consequences.

Features of pulmonary thrombosis

Frequent with coronavirus infection and thrombosis in the lungs. The manifestations of the disease depend on the size of the blood clot and the affected blood vessel. This may include mild shortness of breath, fatigue, and decreased endurance. But serious respiratory failure can also develop, and then urgent hospitalization is necessary.

Thrombosis treatment

With the development of thrombosis, medical supervision is mandatory.The doctor prescribes the necessary examination, monitors the test results and the patient’s condition. Medical treatment of blood vessels after Covid-19 is aimed at normalizing blood coagulation and restoring blood flow in the affected vessels.

How to treat thrombosis after coronavirus? On the recommendation of a doctor and strictly under his control, anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents are used. According to indications, hormone therapy can be prescribed. Medical supervision is necessary throughout the acute period of thrombosis.

After the acute period has passed and with a minimal risk of complications, it is possible to use physiotherapeutic methods.

Physiotherapy for venous thrombosis of the lower extremities

Physiotherapy is the effect on the body of physical factors: heat, ultraviolet or magnetic radiation, pressure, massage.

The production company Solnyshko is engaged in the development, implementation and production of medical equipment. The main specialization of Solnyshko LLC is the production of devices and apparatus used in physiotherapy.A promising direction in the restoration of blood vessels after coronavirus is the use of a magnetic field.

What is magnetotherapy?

Magnetic therapy is the application of an alternating magnetic field for therapeutic purposes. The effect of a magnet on the body:

• pain relief;
• reduction of inflammation;
• decrease in the rate of bacterial reproduction;
• calming effect;
• increasing the elasticity of blood vessels;
• normalization of blood clotting.

Thanks to these beneficial actions, the range of application of magnetotherapy is very wide. For the treatment of blood vessels after Covid-19 with thrombosis, magnetotherapy devices can be used with caution and as directed by a doctor.

Application of the AMnp-02 “Sun” magnetotherapy device with a low-frequency magnetic field in superficial thrombosis helps relieve swelling and pain. Magnetic therapy is not prescribed for deep vein thrombosis.

Magnetic therapy for the restoration of blood vessels after coronavirus helps to normalize the tone of the veins and restore microcirculation.Also, the use of a magnetic field reduces the risk of blood clots by reducing blood clotting. The device is convenient because you can use it yourself at home. The compact portable device is easy to use: you just need to select the desired mode, turn on the device and attach the working part to the desired area of ​​the body.

Prevention of thrombosis

Healthy people, not predisposed to increased blood clots and cardiovascular diseases, it is enough to follow these rules:

• Move a lot.Any dosed physical activity accelerates blood flow and prevents blood stagnation.
• Drink enough liquid – at least 1.5-2 liters of water per day. This will help prevent blood clots and dehydration.
• Quit smoking and minimize alcohol intake. Toxic substances entering the body significantly increase blood clotting and the risk of blood clots.

If there are risk factors, this will not be enough. We must also try to eliminate modifiable risk factors.Reduce excess weight, normalize blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

After suffering a coronavirus infection, as after any viral infection, the immune system is weakened. The person is especially susceptible to the addition of a bacterial infection. To protect yourself from microbial load, air decontamination techniques can be used.

Ultraviolet bactericidal irradiators “Solnyshko” are intended for disinfection of air and surfaces in rooms of all categories.The devices are effective in eliminating harmful bacteria and are used in apartments, offices, places where a large number of people congregate to prevent bacterial contamination.