The calf of the leg is the most common location for blood clots to form. Deep clots, called deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, occur after injury to the vein or from disorders or medications that cause blood to clot more than normal, the Merck Manual Home Edition states. Symptoms range from swelling and pain to no symptoms at all. If clots break free and travel to the lungs, they can block blood flow to the lungs, a potentially life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism, or PE. Treatment of DVT in the calf prevents the clot from enlarging or breaking loose.
Anticoagulants
Anticoagulants, or blood thinners, don't dissolve existing clots, but thin the blood so that the clot doesn't get bigger or so that more clots don't form, the Mayo Clinic explains. People with DVTs first take blood thinners such as heparin in injection form for several days, then take oral anticoagulants such as warfarin, or Coumadin, for three to six months.
Blood thinners can cause bleeding internally and externally, and can cause thrombocytopenia, a low platelet count, which further increases the risk of bleeding. Serious bleeding occurs in fewer than 2 percent of people taking anticoagulants, lead author Dino W. Ramzi, M.D. of Emory University reported in an article entitled "DVT and Pulmonary Embolism" in the June 15, 2004 issue of "American Family Physician."
Thrombolytics
Medications that break up clots, called thrombolytics or "clot busters," increase the risk of serious bleeding and are used only in cases of serious DVT or PE. Thrombolytics are most effective if given in the first 48 hours after a clot forms, according to the Merck Manual Home Edition.
Compression Stockings
Compression stockings, worn over the calves, help keep blood in the legs moving. Compression stockings should be worn for at least a year after having a DVT, the Mayo Clinic states. Some compression stockings are pneumatic, meaning that an electric pump automatically squeezes the calves to keep blood moving so it doesn't stagnate and clot.
Filters
For people who can't take blood thinners, a filter called an umbrella may be placed in the large vein in the abdomen, the inferior vena cava, to "trap" clots so they can't cause a PE, the Mayo Clinic explains.
Other Treatments
Other treatments for DVT in the calf include elevating the leg, applying heat to the affected area and resting the leg. Aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medications may also be prescribed, according to New York Presbyterian Hospital.
