Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein that lies deep within the body, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, or NHLBI. Most of the time DVT happens either below the knee or in the thigh. DVT is dangerous because the blood clot can travel to other parts of the body, including the lungs, where it can cause serious lung damage and death.
Medication
Blood thinners are the most common treatment for DVT because they can prevent a clot from growing and new ones from forming, according to the NHLBI. But they don't dissolve an existing clot, which should slowly break down on its own over time. Doctors may use an injection of heparin at first because it acts quickly, and then may add an oral medication called warfarin for longer-term use. Patients may need to take blood thinners for 3 to 6 months. The most important side effect is bleeding, which can be serious. Patients with large, dangerous clots may need a thrombolytic which can dissolve a clot. But thrombolytic drugs are usually only used in life-threatening situations because they can cause sudden and severe bleeding and stroke.
Filter
A vena cava filter is used for patients who can't take blood thinners or when drugs don't prevent new clots from forming, according to the NHLBI. The filter is inserted into the vena cava, a large vein that moves blood from the upper half of the body to the heart and lungs. The filter catches blood clots that break off from a DVT before they can get to the lungs and cause serious problems. The filter is usually inserted during a day procedure that involves inserting a thin tube called a catheter into a leg vein and threading it up through the veins to the vena cava.
Compression Stockings
Compression stockings reduce the leg swelling that can happen because of a DVT and also keep blood from pooling and forming clots in the lower leg, according to the NHLBI. These stockings are graduated, meaning they are tight at the ankle and loosen up as they climb the leg. This creates a gentle upward pressure that prevents clotting. Compression stockings come in several varieties including over-the-counter products and stronger prescription products that must be individually fitted by trained personnel.
