Deep Vein Thrombosis

Overview

Deep Vein Thrombosis is a condition wherein there is a formation of clot along specific areas of the deep veins. Deep veins are structures that connect to the largest vein in the body which is primarily known as the vena cava. The vena cava is the major vein connected to the heart. If the deep veins are somehow damaged through the clots, there will definitely be a problem in the flow of blood directly to the heart. This can lead to various cardiovascular complications. Some of the areas where DVT commonly occurs include the calf, thighs, and arms and even in the chest where it can be very crucial.

Symptoms

A lot of types of Deep Vein Thrombosis actually are asymptomatic. Depending on severity and location, the specific symptoms can certainly arise. One of the symptoms includes pain in the affected area which is actually worsened by activity. For example, even the simple act of standing can already cause pain once you already have a blood clot in one of the blood vessels of your legs. There is also a noted skin discoloration, which is often bluish, due to the deprivation of oxygen in the area lower than the clot. This means that the oxygenated blood is not that able to reach the affected area because the clot serves as a block to normal blood flow. Sometimes, discoloration can become reddish instead of the usual bluish color.

Risk Factors

The main risk factor for having Deep Vein Thrombosis is definitely the alteration in normal blood flow. This can be caused by several conditions which include clotting problems, sedentary lifestyle or prolonged lack of activity and even cancer. Some surgical conditions may also lead to the development of DVT if proper mobility exercises are not practiced within a certain period of time.

Diagnosis

There are two primary diagnostic tools that are used to detect the presence of DVT. First is the venogram which is a type of xray which uses an injectable dye. This facilitates the visualization of the exact structure of the veins even including all of the present clots within them. Aside from the venogram, Duplex ultrasound is also used. It is specifically used to determine how fast the blood flows through the vein.

Treatment

There are several available treatment options available for DVT. There are available drugs and even corrective procedures which are most non-invasive in nature. Heparin, a blood thinning type of drug may be used.  This functions by preventing your blood from clotting. Heparin does not totally dissolve the clot but they primarily work by preventing development of further clots. Caution must be noted in taking these drugs because they should only be given in certain dosages. Too much of such types of drugs can cause unwanted hemorrhage. Aside from using anticoagulants, thrombolytics may also be recommended. These drugs primarily work by dissolving the clots. This will definitely work best for huge clots that have the risk for totally blocking the veins. Surgical procedure may be required if the condition becomes too severe.