Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (also known as DVT) is a condition when a blood clot (known as a thrombus) forms in a deep vein in the body.  DVT usually occurs in the legs, especially in the deep veins within the calf muscle.  The symptoms of a DVT can range from having no symptoms to leg swelling, warm sensation, leg discomfort or cramping sensation, calf muscle pain at rest or when walking. It is IMPORTANT to inform your doctor when you experience symptoms of a DVT especially when you are a high risk patient (see below) or anytime AFTER SURGERY while you are recovering and not moving very much.

Risk factors for DVT include;

• Slow blood flow in your leg veins (due to pregnancy, lying in bed after surgery especially after hip or abdominal surgery, sitting in one position for long periods such as on a long flight)
• Higher tendency of your blood clotting (due to obesity, smoking, having cancer or cancer treatment, hormone treatment such as Contraceptive pills or Hormone Replacement Treatment)
• Damaged veins following trauma
• Family history of DVT

Signs of Pulmonary Embolism (PE) include;

• Chest pain (especially when breathing in)
• Coughing up blood
• Shortness of breath
• Increased heart rate
• Feeling dizzy or faint

Prevention

It is important to exercise daily as part of your health fitness routine or at least move your calf muscles on a regular basis after any surgery where you need to be in bed for a prolonged period of time.  High risk patients may be offered anti-coagulation treatment to reduce the risk of blood clots after surgery.  It is VERY IMPORTANT NOT TO CROSS YOUR LEGS when you are resting during pregnancy or after any surgery while you are less mobile and confined to bed rest.

See your Doctor ASAP when you experience any symptoms of a DVT

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If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention from your doctor or other professional healthcare providers. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information on this website.