Also known as deep vein thrombosis, DVT is a condition that involves a blood clot within a deep vein. Blood clots associated with DVT usually develop in the leg, but they can occur within any deep vein.
When your blood begins to clot, it becomes a solid mass. Most deep vein thrombosis blood clots form within the lower leg or thigh, and they pose a serious risk to your health.
Are You at Risk of Developing DVT?
Deep vein thrombosis is a condition that is known to affect individuals who are 50 or older, and there are several conditions that can put you at a greater risk of developing this dangerous condition. For example, an injury to your veins can increase your risk of getting DVT.
Due to the increased pressure, being overweight is another common risk factor. If you have a family history of deep vein thrombosis, then you’re much more likely to develop the condition.
The insertion of a catheter into your vein can also increase your risk. Some other risk factors include smoking, taking birth control pills and sitting for long periods of time. There are also several disorders that can put you at a greater risk of developing the condition, and some examples are inflammatory bowel disease and cancer.
What are the Symptoms?
According to some of the latest statistics, only about 50 percent of people who develop DVT experience symptoms of the condition, and since the symptoms mimic the effects of many other types of conditions, it can be even harder to determine if you have DVT.
Some common symptoms are swelling in your leg, ankle or foot, with the swelling almost always occurring on one side; and cramping pain in the leg that has the blood clot, with the pain usually starting at the calf.
If you have deep vein thrombosis, then you might experience the symptom of unexplained pain in your ankle or foot, and the pain should be very severe. Another common symptom of DVT is skin that turns reddish or bluish, and the skin that changes color is usually right above the blood clot.
Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t find out that they have DVT until they’re rushed to the emergency room because of a pulmonary embolism, which has the potential to be deadly.
What are the Treatment Options?
Most of the treatment options for deep vein thrombosis are designed to prevent the blood clot from growing larger. Common treatment options are also designed to prevent a pulmonary embolism and reduce the risk of developing additional blood clots.
Schedule a consultation at Beach Cities Vein and Laser Center in El Segundo to have your condition assessed and to learn about your treatment options. We proudly serve the Los Angeles area. Contact us today to book your appointment.