What is Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the lower extremities. However a D.V.T. can form in other veins of the body. A Deep Vein Thrombosis is blood clot that is a clump of blood cells that is in a solid state.
A condition referred to as a Pulmonary Embolism (PE) also called venous thromboembolism, become life threatening if the clot, "breaks off" and travels to your lungs making breathing difficult, it may even cause death.
What causes Deep Vein Thrombosis?
- D.V.T. is formed when blood flow becomes very slow.
- Some Specific causes may include but not limited to
- Damage to a vein.
- Cancer and other diseases, and genetic conditions, such as hypercoagulable states.
- Medications, and hormones.
- Inactivity
How is Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosed?
- A Venous Duplex Ultrasound Exam
- A blood test refer to as a D-Dimer
- Venogram, is an x-ray in which a contrast is injected into a vein. The contrast allow the Physician to see the anatomy of the veins and clots.
How is Deep Vein Thrombosis Treated?
- Anticoagulants know as Blood Thinners.
- Thrombolytic Therapy is used to dissolve a clot quickly.
- An IVC filter, is a device placed surgical inside the Inferior Vena Cava that prevents large clots from traveling to the lungs.
Signs and Symptoms?
- Swelling in the foot, ankle, or leg, usually on one side.
- Pain
- Redness
- An area of skin, that feels warmer than the skin on the surrounding areas.
- A D.V.T. can occur without any warning signs.
Testing for Deep Vein Thrombosis can be done in our Vascular Lab Appointment Request