Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Pain or swelling in the legs or arms can significantly change your lifestyle. If your leg or arm pain is coupled with a pre-existing medical condition that affects blood clotting, if you are overweight or smoke, if you had a recent fracture in your pelvis, hips or lower extremities – you might be at risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). This illness occurs when a blood clot forms deep in the body and partially or completely blocks blood flow through the vein.
While most DVTs are found in the lower leg, thigh or pelvis, it can occur in other parts of the body including: the arm, brain, intestines, liver or kidney.
Symptoms of DVT
In some cases, DVT is undetectable, but for others, it’s highly identifiable. You may be suffering from DVT if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Swelling in one or both legs or arm (sometimes happens suddenly)
- Discolored skin or redness on your leg or arm
- Pain, sometimes in your calf that resembles soreness or cramping
- Affected areas are warm to the touch
- Cramps
- Worsening leg or arm pain
- Veins near the skin’s surface may be larger than normal
At times patients do not know they have a DVT until a clot moves from their leg or arm and travels to their lung.
Who is at Risk for DVT?
DVT is most commonly found in adults, 40 and older. It can also affect people with a family history of the illness, cancer patients, pregnant women and new mothers, those who’ve recently had surgery, overweight individuals, and those who have had deep vein injuries. You can develop DVT if you don’t move for long periods of time, for example, being confined to a bed after surgery.
Serious Risks
Blood clots are extremely dangerous because when they break loose, they can travel through your bloodstream, lodge themselves in your lungs and cause pulmonary embolism, a more serious life-threatening condition. This is why it’s incredibly important to seek medical help if you think you’re suffering from DVT. Chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid pulse and dizziness are clues that you’re experiencing a pulmonary embolism.
Prevention & Treatment of DVT
If you want to prevent DVT, it can be a simple matter of making healthier lifestyle choices. Stay hydrated and get regular exercise. Avoid sitting for too long and smoking. Wear compression stockings. Maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure.
Summit Skin and Vein Care is Here to Help!
Though it can be a serious condition, sometimes life-threatening, the experts at Summit Skin and Vein Care are ready to talk about any symptoms you are having and the best treatment options. If you suspect you have any symptoms or would like to talk about our depth of vein care services and in-house expertise, contact us today to schedule an appointment.