Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Causes, Symptoms, Prevention

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that can quietly threaten your health, often remaining unnoticed until it turns into a medical emergency. DVT occurs when a blood clot, or thrombus, forms in the deep veins of the leg. If left untreated, this clot can dislodge and travel to the lungs, leading to a life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism.

Causes and Risk Factors: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is more likely to affect individuals over the age of 60, obese individuals, those with a history of varicose veins, or people who have been immobilized due to surgery or bedrest. Other risk factors include pregnancy, post-pregnancy, high-dose estrogen therapy, intravenous drug abuse, oral contraceptives, and chronic smoking.

Recognizing Symptoms: Symptoms of DVT can vary and might include subtle signs such as leg pain, swelling, cramping, soreness, and a change in skin color, often turning blue or purple. If you have been diagnosed with DVT, it’s crucial to remain vigilant for symptoms of pulmonary embolism, which can include chest pain, dizziness, rapid breathing, coughing up blood, and an increased pulse rate.

Potential Complications: Apart from pulmonary embolism, DVT can lead to other complications, including post-thrombotic syndrome and bleeding, often caused by the use of blood thinners during treatment.

Diagnostic Tests: To confirm a DVT diagnosis, your doctor may recommend various tests, such as Duplex scans and MRI. If pulmonary embolism is suspected, a CT angiography may be performed for further evaluation.

Preventing DVT: Prevention is key when it comes to DVT, and there are several strategies you can adopt:

1. Avoid Extended Air Travel: Long flights can impede blood circulation, so whenever possible, take short walks during your flight to keep your blood flowing.
2. Stay Active: If your job requires prolonged sitting, take short breaks to walk around or call a friend and go for a 10-15 minute walk to maintain circulation.
3. Regular Exercise: Engage in physical activity to manage obesity and promote lower limb movement, reducing the risk of DVT.
4. Ankle Rotations: When you can’t walk, slowly rotate your ankles clockwise and counterclockwise about ten times to help maintain blood flow.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The moneycontrol