Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot, or thrombus, forms in one of the deep veins of your body. It often affects the veins in the legs but can also occur in the pelvis, arms or other areas.

The main concern with DVT is the possibility of the clot breaking loose and traveling through the bloodstream, leading to a life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism.

Causes and risk factors for DVT

Some common causes and risk factors for DVT include prolonged immobility, surgery or trauma, medical conditions such as cancer or heart disease, pregnancy and childbirth, or an inherited/acquired blood-clotting disorder.

Symptoms and complications of DVT

DVT symptoms may not always present noticeable signs, but common indicators include:

• Swelling in the affected leg, often accompanied by unexplained pain, cramping or tenderness
• Warmth and redness over the affected area
• Dilated surface veins

If a blood clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs, it can cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism may include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, dizziness and coughing up blood.

Diagnosis and treatment

If DVT is suspected, a doctor may perform diagnostic tests, including an ultrasound of the affected area or a D-Dimer test to measure a substance in your blood that can indicate a clot. DVT treatment focuses on preventing the clot from getting larger and reducing the risk of pulmonary embolism. Common DVT treatments include:

• Blood-thinning medications like heparin or warfarin — often prescribed to prevent clot growth and new clot formation
• Thrombolytic therapy, or using medications also known as “clot busters,” to dissolve the clot more quickly
• Filters may be placed into a large vein — the vena cava — in your abdomen when medicines aren’t an option
• Compression stockings help prevent swelling and promote blood flow in the legs.

Preventing DVTs

Preventing DVT is crucial, especially if you have any of the known risk factors listed above. Some preventive measures include moving, stretching and exercising regularly to improve blood circulation, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol and wearing compression stockings.

If you think you have DVT, seek the care of a vascular specialist immediately or go to the nearest emergency department.

Deep Vein Thrombosis Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis?
DVT symptoms include swelling, pain, cramping, tenderness and warmth or redness over the affected area.

How is deep vein thrombosis diagnosed?
DVT is diagnosed through tests like ultrasounds or D-dimer tests that measure substances in the blood indicating the presence of clots.

What are the risk factors for developing deep vein thrombosis?
Risk factors include prolonged immobility, surgery, trauma, medical conditions like cancer or heart disease, pregnancy, childbirth and blood-clotting disorders.

Can deep vein thrombosis lead to serious complications?
Yes, DVT can lead to a pulmonary embolism if the clot travels to the lungs, causing severe health issues.

What treatments are available for deep vein thrombosis?
DVT treatment includes blood-thinning medications, thrombolytic therapy, filters and compression stockings.