Don't Put Off Treatment for Deep Vein Thrombosis

Veins have the important job of carrying blood back to the heart, where it can receive oxygen. When a blood clot abnormally forms deep within the veins of the arms or legs, it’s called deep vein thrombosis, or DVT. This condition makes it harder for the blood to travel back to the heart and can potentially cause a life-threatening condition called a pulmonary embolism.

Recognizing DVT Symptoms

“DVT can happen fairly suddenly in patients, especially those who have risk factors,” says John Fish III, MD, FSVM, a ProMedica Physician with Jobst Vascular Institute. “That can obstruct blood flow, cause impaired flow back to the heart and swelling of the limbs, which can cause pain and an inability to walk correctly.”

DVT is a dangerous condition. If the blood clot becomes unstable, it can break free from the vein wall and move from that position. The clot, now called an embolus, can travel through your bloodstream and up to your lungs. There, it can block your blood vessel and the lung’s blood supply. This resulting life-threatening condition is called a pulmonary embolism (PE).

Usually, DVT symptoms appear quickly. A person may notice from one day to the next that their leg is more swollen, discolored or painful, especially when they are on their feet walking around. 

“Signs and symptoms of DVT can range from swelling that can cause severe pain and inability to walk to very subtle discoloration of the leg. It might be more apparent in someone who’s standing or even walking; they can have fatigue and pain,” explains Dr. Fish. “Individuals who have a high risk of having a clot or have a history of having a clot may not have significant symptoms. They may have subtle findings that their physician might pick up on that could indicate that they may have developed a clot in their leg.”

If DVT is suspected, a physician may order scans or a blood test to make the diagnosis.

Are you at risk for DVT?

Dr. Fish explains that the risks for DVT can be broken down into three major categories:

• Lack of flow. When there is a lack of flow in the vein, there’s increased pressure in the vein or the vein cannot empty the way it usually does. For example, when someone has lack of movement, blood becomes stagnant and can clot.
• Inflammation. A blood clot can sometimes form in the vein wall where there is inflammation, usually from injury. Systemic inflammation, throughout the whole body, may also contribute to DVT.
• Genetics. Some people may inherit a tendency towards abnormal blood clotting. This condition is called thrombophilia.

Having a history of DVT or pulmonary embolism, using oral contraceptives or hormone therapy, and being pregnant can also increase your risk for DVT.

Treatment for DVT and PE

If you’re experiencing DVT symptoms, call your primary care provider right away. They may refer you to a vascular specialist to discuss diagnosis and treatment options. Your blood flow may improve with medications and compression therapy, or vascular surgery may be recommended for extensive DVT.