Get Your Legs Spring-Ready!
Even before winter releases its icy grasp, our minds shift to…
What is Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Deep vein thrombosis disease (DVT) is a serious medical condition that requires treatment from a skilled medical professional to avoid further complications. While sometimes there are symptoms, at other times DVT can go undetected. Here is some information so you can educate yourself about this disease.
What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis?
There are different risk factors that cause deep vein thrombosis disease, and if you learn about them, you can understand what behaviors or circumstances make it more likely that you develop DVT. It is vital to prevent this from happening and treat it promptly if it does occur so that you can avoid a pulmonary embolism. When you have both deep vein thrombosis and a pulmonary embolism, it is called venous thromboembolism (VTE).
What Causes Deep Vein Thrombosis?
When your blood does not clot or circulate properly, you can be at risk for this disease. Depending upon your health, it is important to take steps so you can avoid it to the best of your ability. Various factors can either cause or increase your chances of acquiring DVT. While at times there is no explicable reason why you may have the disease, often it can be attributed to particular situations or your general medical health.
What Are the Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis?
It is very important to understand that sometimes, you may have deep vein thrombosis disease without having apparent symptoms. Be sure to stay in tune with your body and if something does not feel right, seek immediate medical care.
How Is Deep Vein Thrombosis Treated?
It is important to go to a specialized vein doctor for treatment of your DVT, since he or she has the experience to distinguish what needs immediate attention or treatment and what needs to be carefully monitored. There are other things that you can do to take control of your health and prevent deep vein thrombosis disease. After discussing your individual case at your appointment, your doctor may advise you to:
- Wear compression stockings
- Walk regularly
- Engage in a specific exercise program
- Elevate your legs while seated
Why Choose Us?
At Northern Illinois Vein Clinic, we have made sure that our experienced, knowledgeable staff has been educated in the most advanced technology to treat all different kinds of vein diseases and disorders, such as deep vein thrombosis disease. We treat our patients with compassion while giving them the highest standards in medical care. Contact Northern Illinois Vein Clinic today to schedule an appointment to discuss your individual health concerns. We are here to help get you on the road to your best health so you can enjoy a productive, happy life.
Causes
The following different factors could put you at increased risk of developing DVT:
- Varicose Veins – A study by the journal JAMA found that with individuals suffering from varicose veins, there is a significantly increased risk of developing DVT.
- Genetic Risk – You can inherit a higher risk for DVT.
- Bed Rest or Prolonged Sitting – Extended periods of laying or sitting down can disrupt healthy blood flow and lead to clotting.
- Pregnancy – Increased pressure in your pelvis and legs from pregnancy can potentially lead to blood clots.
- Weight Problems – Being overweight or obese puts more strain on your veins.
- Smoking – Smoking’s negative effects on your circulation and clotting dramatically increases the risk of DVT.
- Hormones – Taking birth control or hormone replacement therapy can increase clotting.
Symptoms
The most common warning signs of DVT include pain, warmth, swelling or discomfort in the leg. It might also occur without noticeable symptoms. DVT may lead to pulmonary embolism, which has its own set of symptoms, including shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, dizziness and coughing up blood. If you’re showing any of those symptoms, you may need in-depth vein thrombosis treatment.
The best way to avoid DVT is to stay active, avoid too much rest and quit using cigarettes if you are a current smoker.
Treatments
To diagnose DVT, your doctor will interview you, use an ultrasound to map your veins and potentially run blood tests. If DVT is confirmed, there are a variety of options available for treatment. A doctor may administer blood thinners or clot busters. In very severe cases, DVT treatment may be necessary.
How to Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Featured Patient
Long days of teaching exacerbated the burning and restless feelings in Kendra Brauer’s legs. The bruises and visible veins also provoked curious questions from her second-grade students if she wore anything shorter than full-length pants. Brauer first noticed a bruise on her leg when she was in her mid-20s. Slowly, more veins showed up and […]
ACCREDITATIONS
