DEEP VENOUS THROMBOSIS

DEEP VENOUS THROMBOSIS

Deep vein thrombosis is a medical condition in which there is clot formation inside the deep veins of our body. This is a major concern in bed ridden patients, because it causes edematous and painful leg. It could also occur due to defects in clotting pathway. DVT is life threatening because the clots formed inside the veins can be carried to heart and lungs causing pulmonary embolism.

Symptoms

DVT can present with certain signs and symptoms:DVT SYMPTOMS CAUSES TREATMENT

  • The affected leg has edema.
  • Tender and painful calf. Pain is cramp like in character.
  • Along with swelling, the leg is felt warm compared with the normal one.
  • Redness in the affected area

DVT may dislodge and get stuck in pulmonary artery causing the following alarming symptoms:

  • Increased pulse
  • Blood stained sputum
  • Vertigo and dizziness
  • Rapid and short breaths
  • Pain inside the chest while coughing
Causes

Certain drugs, insult to deep venous system, recent surgery, decreased or no movement can be the causes that lead to the formation of DVT.

Complications

DVT can lead to several complications which include:

  • Postthrombotic syndrome, also known as postphebitic syndrome. Characterized by: Swelling in the leg, changes in skin color, painful affected leg and ulcers on the skin
  • Emboli in pulmonary arteries
Diagnosis

The symptoms along with the following tests help reaching the diagnosis:

  • Ultrasound of leg
  • Some blood tests (D dimer is usually elevated)
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT)
  • Venography
Treatment

The treatment of DVT is intended to lower down the further increment in the size of thrombus. Certain drugs which are given are as follows:

  • Anticoagulants (thinner of blood): Lessens the capability of blood clotting.
  • Thrombolytics (clot busters)
  • Filters inside vena cava – to prevent complications like pulmonary embolism.
  • Medical compression stockings- to prevent the blood from clotting.
Lifestyle and home remedies

Preventive measures must be taken to prevent further formation of any DVT

  • Visit doctor frequently to check up on the clotting status.
  • Exercise and movement
  • Observe carefully for bleeding status.
  • Stockings should be worn
  • Anticoagulants must be taken accordingly as per doctor’s advice.
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