DVT
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is caused by a blood clot (thrombus) forming in one or more of the deep veins in your body, most commonly in your legs. Deep vein thrombosis can cause swelling and/or pain, but also can occur without any symptoms.
Certain medical conditions that affect how your blood clots can make you more susceptible to getting a DVT. A blood clot in your legs can also happen if you don’t move for a long time, such as after you have surgery or an accident, when you’re traveling a long distance, or when you’re on bed rest.
Deep vein thrombosis can be very serious because blood clots in your veins can break loose, travel through your bloodstream and get stuck in your lungs, blocking blood flow (pulmonary embolism). However, pulmonary embolism can occur with no evidence of DVT.
When DVT and pulmonary embolism occur together, it’s called venous thromboembolism (VTE).
Symptoms
DVT signs and symptoms can include:
- Swelling in the affected leg. Rarely, there’s swelling in both legs.
- Pain in your leg. The pain often starts in your calf and can feel like cramping or soreness.
- Red or discolored skin on the leg.
- A feeling of warmth in the affected leg.
Deep vein thrombosis can occur without noticeable symptoms.
Prevention
Measures to prevent deep vein thrombosis include the following:
- Keep Moving! If you have had surgery or have been on bed rest for other reasons, try to get moving as soon as possible. If you’re sitting for a while, don’t cross your legs, which can block blood flow. If you’re traveling a long distance by car, stop every hour or so and walk around.
- If you’re on a plane, stand or walk occasionally. If you can’t do that, exercise your lower legs. Try raising and lowering your heels while keeping your toes on the floor, then raising your toes with your heels on the floor.
- Don’t smoke. Smoking increases your risk of getting DVT.
- Exercise and manage your weight. Obesity is a risk factor for DVT. Regular exercise lowers your risk of blood clots, which is especially important for people who sit a lot or travel frequently.
Don’t smoke and end up like Kramer.
Written by Clint Bunker PT
