Introduction
If you’re feeling achy, feverish, and have pain in one or both of your legs, it could be because you’ve developed Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). This condition affects around one out of every 1,000 adults, and if left unchecked, it can be potentially life-altering. But how do you know if the symptoms are actually DVT? What do you need to know about DVT? Find out in this article.
What is DVT?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the body, usually in the legs. DVT can cause pain and swelling in the affected area, and can lead to serious complications if the clot breaks free and travels to the lungs.
DVT occurs when a blood vessel is damaged or when blood flow slows down, allowing blood cells to stick together and form a clot. This can happen for many reasons, including:
- Injury to the veins from surgery or trauma
- Immobility (such as from a long airplane flight or bed rest)
- Cancer
- Use of certain medications (such as birth control pills)
- Pregnancy
Most DVT clots occur in the large veins of the leg, but they can also form in other areas of the body, such as the arms, stomach, or brain. If untreated, DVT can lead to serious problems like pulmonary embolism (PE), which is when a clot travels to the lungs and blocks an artery. PE can be life-threatening.
What are common deep vein thrombosis symptoms?
If you have DVT, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and signs so you can get treatment as soon as possible.
The most common symptom of DVT is pain or tenderness in the affected leg. The pain is usually a dull ache that gets worse when you walk or stand. You may also have:
- Swelling in the affected leg
- Red or discolored skin on the leg
- Warmth in the affected area
- Increased skin sensitivity
- Leg fatigue or heaviness
Our doctors are well-equipped to diagnose DVT, and can advise you on the best course of action.
What causes deep vein thrombosis?
There are several different factors that can contribute to the development of deep vein thrombosis. In some cases, it may be due to an inherited disorder that makes your blood more likely to clot. Other times, it may be the result of a recent surgery or injury. DVT can also occur when you sit or stand for long periods of time without moving around. This is because the blood in your veins starts to pool and doesn’t circulate as well.
How do I prevent deep vein thrombosis?
There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing DVT:
- Get up and move around every few hours, especially if you are sitting or lying down for long periods of time.
- Exercise regularly.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid constrictive clothing or jewelry.
- Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated.
- Don’t smoke.
How is deep vein thrombosis treated?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is treated with a combination of medical and lifestyle therapies. The goal of treatment is to prevent the DVT from getting larger, breaking off and causing a pulmonary embolism (PE), and to reduce the risk of future DVTs.
Medical therapies for DVT include anticoagulants (blood thinners) and thrombolytics (clot busters). Anticoagulants prevent new clots from forming and help to dissolve existing clots. Thrombolytics are used in more serious cases where the clot is blocking blood flow and causing symptoms. For extreme cases, surgery to remove the clot may be necessary.
Lifestyle changes that can help to prevent DVT include staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding long periods of sitting or standing. If you have a history of DVT, you may need to take medication or wear compression stockings to keep your blood flowing smoothly.
Can DVT be cured?
No, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) cannot be cured. However, it can be treated and managed. Treatment for DVT typically includes anticoagulants (blood thinners), which help to prevent the clot from getting larger and reduce the risk of the clot breaking off and causing a pulmonary embolism (PE). In some cases, surgery may be necessary. If this is the case, a filter may be placed in the vena cava (the large vein that carries blood from the lower body to the heart) to catch any clots that break off and prevent them from reaching the lungs.
If you have DVT, your doctor will likely recommend lifestyle changes to help prevent another clot from forming. These changes may include quitting smoking, losing weight if you are overweight, and exercising regularly. You will also need to take blood thinners for an extended period of time – often for six months or more – and may need to take them for the rest of your life if you are at high risk for another DVT.
How long does it take for DVT to go away?
Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition that can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you think you may have DVT. Once diagnosed, your doctor will start you on treatment and closely monitor your condition.
Most people with DVT will need to take blood thinners for at least 3 months. In some cases, long-term treatment may be necessary. The good news is that DVT is treatable and the majority of people make a full recovery with no lasting effects.
How EVA Teleconsult can help manage deep vein thrombosis symptoms
EVA Teleconsult can help with a wide variety of chronic conditions, including DVT. Through EVA, you will receive the guidance you need to protect yourself or your loved ones from the discomforts brought about by this condition. That’s because at EVA Teleconsult, our patients can always expect:
- Same-day and on-time appointments – No more awkward waiting outside a doctor’s office. We value your time as much as you do. You can book same day appointments and our consultations always start on time
- 30 minutes of consultation – Our doctors explain your condition completely and thoroughly to your satisfaction, and give you all the time you need to ask questions and voice any concerns you may have.
- Five-star rated doctors – We speak your language and explain things in a way you can understand. No wonder so many of our patients leave our doctors glowing reviews!
Take the first step in protecting yourself and your family, and book an online consultation today.
