Deep vein thrombosis is a serious medical condition that happens when a blood clot forms in the deep veins of your body. These clots usually occur in the legs and can cause leg swelling or pain; however, this condition can occur without any symptoms.
Certain medical conditions can put you at a higher risk for DVT. These conditions are those that affect how your blood clots. Deep vein thrombosis can occur if you don’t move for extended periods of time, such as right after surgery, an accident, or any situation where you are confined to a bed.
How Serious is DVT?
Deep vein thrombosis is very serious because the blood clots caused by this condition in your veins can break loose, travel through your body, and end up in the lungs, which blocks blood flow and can cause a pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal. These blood clots can be caused by a number of factors that prevent your blood from circulating or clotting in a normal fashion. There are several risk factors that can lead to DVT, including:
• Inheriting a blood clotting disorder
• Prolonged bedrest
• Smoking
• Being overweight
• Pregnancy
• Age
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Birth control/hormone replacement therapy
Deep Vein Thrombosis Symptoms and Signs
As we previously stated, at times no deep vein thrombosis symptoms can occur. However, signs and symptoms include pain in the leg that often begins in the calf and feels like soreness and/or cramping, as well as swelling in the affected leg. It is rare that both legs will swell, however.
If you experience any of the symptoms of DVT, it is important to contact your physician. Should you develop the symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, you should seek immediate medical attention. The warning signs of a pulmonary embolism include:
• Coughing up blood
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Chest pains that worsen when you take a deep breath or cough
• Unexplained, sudden shortness of breath
• Rapid pulse
Says Dr. Thomas Wright, “Anyone suffering from a condition that causes clots or poor circulation should be under a physician’s care to prevent deep vein thrombosis, which can be a very serious condition.”
He continues, “At Laser Lipo and Vein Center, we are very knowledgeable and experienced in all types of vein diseases and issues. If you are concerned about any vein issues, please call us to schedule a consultation.”
