Deep vein thrombosis happens when a blood clot forms a vein found deep in the body, usually in the legs or the pelvis. Besides the discomfort and pain it may cause in the affected area, there is a huge risk of complications, including pulmonary embolism. That may happen should the clot break and travel upwards, up to the lungs blocking blood flow to the lungs.
Even in cases where this does not happen, the blood clot can still cause permanent valve damage, causing pain, sores in the legs, and swelling. According to the CDC, 10-30% of people who have DVT develop in the leg develop fatal complications a month after their diagnosis.
Causes of deep vein thrombosis
Several causes and risk factors can contribute to the development of DVT. You must be aware of these causes and risk factors, especially for individuals with multiple risk factors or a personal or family history of DVT.
Stasis of Blood Flow
Slow or stagnant blood flow, which can occur during long periods of immobility (such as during long flights or bed rest), allows blood to pool and increases the risk of clot formation.
Endothelial Damage
Injury or damage to the inner lining of blood vessels can trigger clotting as the body tries to repair the damaged area.
Hypercoagulability
Certain medical conditions or medications can increase the blood’s tendency to clot, even without other risk factors.
Risk Factors:
- Immobility: Prolonged periods of sitting or lying down, such as during long flights or after surgery, can reduce blood circulation and increase the risk of clot formation.
- Surgery: Major surgeries, particularly those involving the lower extremities or abdomen, can lead to blood stasis and increase the risk of clotting.
- Inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity can contribute to poor blood circulation and increase the likelihood of clot formation.
- Advanced Age: The risk of DVT increases with age, partly due to changes in blood vessels and decreased mobility.
- Obesity: Excess weight can pressure veins and impede blood flow, increasing the risk of clot formation.
- Pregnancy: Pregnancy causes changes in blood flow and pressure on pelvic veins, increasing the risk of clot formation. The postpartum period is also associated with increased risk.
- Hormone Therapy: Hormone-based medications, such as birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, can affect blood clotting and increase the risk of DVT.
- Cancer: Some cancers and cancer treatments can promote clot formation due to their impact on blood clotting mechanisms.
- Previous DVT: A history of DVT increases the risk of recurrence.
- Genetics: Inherited conditions, such as factor V Leiden mutation and other clotting disorders, can predispose individuals to abnormal clotting.
- Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and affects blood clotting factors, contributing to the risk of DVT.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, and inflammatory disorders, can increase the risk of clot formation.
- Varicose Veins: These twisted, enlarged veins can hinder blood flow and increase the likelihood of clot development.
Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis
Not everyone develops DVT symptoms. However, in cases where it happens, the symptoms include;
- Swelling: One of the most common symptoms is swelling, often in one leg or foot. The affected area may appear larger or feel tense and painful.
- Pain: Individuals with DVT may experience pain ranging from a dull ache to sharp discomfort. The pain might be localized to the affected area, such as the calf or thigh.
- Warmth and Redness: The skin over the affected vein might become warm and red. This can indicate increased blood flow and inflammation due to the clot.
- Tenderness: The area around the clot might be tender to the touch. This tenderness can often be felt along the course of the affected vein.
- Visible Veins: Sometimes, the affected veins become more visible, especially near the skin’s surface. This might be due to increased blood flow or congestion caused by the clot.
Conclusion
Given the range of potential causes for blood clots in the veins, early diagnosis is essential, especially when one does not manifest clear DVT symptoms. The treatment options include medications, surgery, and several other non-surgical therapies. At Washington Vascular Specialists, we provide the best service and care, from screening to diagnosis and treatment. We are your nearest and most convenient vascular specialist center, with six locations around Washington.
We have been open since 2005 and have various vascular specialists, including vascular surgeons, cardiologists, and endovascular specialists. We also have all the diagnostic and treatment equipment for all kinds of vascular diseases. Visit us today, and let us get you better.
