1. A Fancy Term for a Blood Clot
Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a medical term that refers to a blood clot (in the legs most commonly); however, thrombosis can occur in other areas of the body as well. A clot, or thrombus, forms in a large vein and begins to interfere with normal blood flow, damaging surrounding tissues. Occasionally a clot can break off and begin to move through the blood stream, at which point it is referred to as an embolus. Embolus can become trapped in the lungs, heart, brain or other organs, causing severe damage. While DVT is most common in people over 60, they can occur in people of all ages.
2. Think You Might Have Thrombosis?
When thrombosis begins, a blood clot becomes trapped in a vein and often causes the vein to stretch and become firm and inflamed, forming a varicose vein. In many cases, the vein can be seen or felt through the skin. Other symptoms of DVT may include tenderness and pain, swelling due to fluid accumulation or warmth or reddening of skin. There are many medical conditions that may cause varicose veins and swelling in the legs; therefore, it is important to remember that thrombosis will affect just one leg, a sure sign that the symptoms are not caused by another medical condition.
3. The Doctor's Diagnosis
Diagnosis of DVT may include a number of tests used to see the thrombosis, such as venography, or x-rays which show the veins, ultrasound and blood tests. Blood tests are particularly important if the cause of thrombosis is not obvious, as they can reveal factors which may be increasing blood clotting, such as lupus or excess proteins and other factors in the blood.
4. Treatment Can Save Your Life
Treatment of DVT is extremely important, as the clot can move and form an embolus which can then become lodged in other organs of your body. Treatment of your thrombosis will most likely include an anticoagulant medication; however, the type and manner of administration will depend on your particular condition. Additionally, if your thrombosis is due to an underlying condition or local trauma, the cause will be treated as a means of preventing the thrombosis from returning.
5. Recognizing Your Risk
There are many things which can elevate your risk for developing DVT, including prolong sitting or bed rest, pregnancy or obesity. Additionally, local trauma such as surgery, fracture and childbirth can all cause blood clots to form. Some conditions such as heart disease and diabetes can reduce circulation in the legs, while others such as polycythemia vera and cancer can cause the production of too many red blood cells, which causes clotting. Finally, blood conditions or some prescription medications can increase blood clotting, putting you at risk. Some of the best prevention methods if you know you are at risk include constrictive stockings, elevating your feet regularly and working the calf muscles by walking or performing leg exercises to get the blood moving.
