Deep vein thrombosis or DVT as it is commonly known a (DVT) is a condition in which blood clots form in the deep veins of the lower limbs. Uncommonly deep veins of the arm can also get affected but this is very rare and usually under special circumstances.
Most patients with DVT are concerning requiring urgent treatment but not life-threatening.
Deep Vein Thrombosis: Symptoms, Signs & Treatment
In Singapore, the frequency rate of acute deep vein thrombosis among inpatients is 15.8 per 10,000 admissions. Better known as DVT, this medical condition involves the formation of a blood clot within the deep veins of the body, typically in the leg.
DVT can cause leg pain and swelling and lead to other complications. Fortunately, the condition can be treated, effectively reducing the risk of complications. Understanding the causes and symptoms of DVT will help you prevent it, seek timely treatment and know what treatment is best for you. Keep reading to learn more.
Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis
DVT can occur without noticeable symptoms; about half of patients do not experience any symptoms. Deep vein thrombosis symptoms include:
- Swelling in the affected area
- Leg pain, tenderness and cramping
- A feeling of warmth on the affected leg
- Red or discolored skin over the affected area
- Swollen, painful veins
If you develop any of these symptoms, see a doctor without delay. Searching for a “deep vein thrombosis doctor near me” or “deep vein thrombosis clinic near me” online will enable you to find medical help quickly.
Causes of DVT
DVT is caused by a blood clot. However, certain factors can contribute to the development of the condition. They include:
- Surgery, particularly abdominal surgery or surgery of the leg or hip
- Trauma, injury or bone fracture
- Reduced mobility or inactivity
- Certain medications including birth control pills, hormone therapy drugs and antidepressants
- Illnesses like cancer, heart failure and infections
- Varicose veins
- Airplane flying
Diagnosis of DVT
To diagnose DVT, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, review your medical history and conduct a physical exam. If they suspect DVT, they will order diagnostic tests such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, venography or a D-dimer blood test.
Accurate deep vein thrombosis diagnosis will enable your doctor to administer the appropriate treatment. This will in turn help to alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Risk Factors of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Anybody can develop DVT. However, certain factors increase the risk of developing blood clots. Knowing these factors will help you take the appropriate actions to protect yourself. Below are some risk factors for DVT.
- Advanced age
- Heredity or family history
- Being overweight or obese
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
Deep Vein Thrombosis Vs Varicose Veins
Although DVT and varicose veins are both conditions of the veins, several things distinguish them. First, varicose veins affect the veins close to the skin surface while DVT affects deeper veins.
Oftentimes, varicose veins will cause visual symptoms. On the other hand, many people with DVT do not experience any symptoms. Lastly, DVT is a more serious condition that can cause pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening if not treated.
Deep Vein Thrombosis and Flying
Long airplane trips involve sitting for extended periods of time, something that increases the risk of developing blood clots. People with pre-existing risk factors for DVT are at a higher risk for the condition while flying. Doctors recommend that patients with a newly diagnosed deep vein thrombosis avoid flying for about four weeks from the start of treatment due to the risk of related complications when traveling.
To prevent blood clots during travel, be sure to:
- Talk to a doctor about your risk, wearing compression stockings or taking medications before departure
- Stand up and walk around the plane occasionally during the flight
- Stretch your legs and exercise your calf muscles while sitting
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
- Massage your legs while seated to improve circulation
- Try to keep your feet elevated
Deep Vein Thrombosis and Exercise
Regular exercise can help to lower the chances of DVT and reduce acute symptoms. Leg exercises in particular keep your legs moving and improve blood circulation. If you have deep vein thrombosis, your exercise routine should include:
- Leg raises
- Knee pulls
- Foot pumps
- Ankle circles
- Walking
How to Choose and Use Compression Stockings
There are different types of compression stockings. When choosing a compression stocking, ensure you pick the right type, the correct compression level and the right fit. If you have DVT, your doctor may recommend the right compression stockings for you.
To put on compression stockings, roll them out inside out towards the heel. Put your foot inside the stocking and slowly pull the stocking up over your leg. Wear them first thing in the morning and keep them on throughout the day.
Treatment Options for Vein Thrombosis
DVT treatment focuses on preventing the clot from growing, stopping the clot from traveling to the lungs and preventing new blood clots from forming. Deep vein thrombosis treatment options include:
Medical management: This is the most common treatment option for DVT. Your doctor may prescribe medications that help to break up clots and make it harder for clots to form.
Minimally invasive pharmaco-mechanical treatments: This is a catheter-based treatment that involves making small incisions to access the affected vein. It is commonly used for extensive or life-threatening DVT.
Filters: If you cannot take blood thinners, a filter can be placed in the vena cava to prevent clots from entering the lungs.
Compression stockings: These help to reduce swelling and prevent blood from pooling in the legs.
Surgery: In case of a very large DVT clot, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the clot.
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Keep Varicose Veins and Spider Veins at Bay
If your legs feel sore persistently, achy when standing long periods, or maybe you notice blue or purple veins even bulging in the area, chances are these symptoms of varicose veins and spider veins could lead to other serious venous diseases such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), or Leg Swelling due to increased pressure forming larger blood clots over time. Varicose veins are fully treatable with minimally invasive procedures and treatments offering minimal downtime and quick recovery preventing further complications. Long term effects of untreated varicose veins can hinder your daily life and impact your health.
The Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic in Singapore is here to diagnose and treat varicose veins smoothening patients’ experience to find relief and comfort. As a vascular and interventional radiology specialist based in Singapore, Dr. Manish Taneja, looks after a spectrum of venous diseases, peripheral vascular malformations, and peripheral arterial disease. Dr. Manish Taneja also has extensive experience in performing all vascular interventions, non-vascular interventions and interventional oncology procedures.
Other Health Conditions
When looking for a deep vein thrombosis specialist, choose a doctor who can give proper diagnosis and treatment. At Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic, we provide quality world class care to patients with vascular and non-vascular disorders. To learn more about how to deal with DVT, contact us to arrange an appointment on our website with Dr. Manish Taneja, or call us at +65 6904 8084.