Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a pathological condition associated with impaired blood flow in the veins due to the formation of blood clots and blockage of the lumen of blood vessels. This pathology is classified as an emergency requiring immediate medical attention. Its absence or refusal by the patient can cause pulmonary embolism, which threatens the patient’s life.
Causes of deep vein thrombosis
- The inflammatory process in the tissues of a general or local nature.
- Slowing blood flow which leads to stagnation of blood in the limbs.
- Hereditary or acquired factors of increased thrombus formation.
- Damage to the wall of the vessel, which causes its blockage, followed by stagnation of blood.
Expounding the disease’s specific cause allows a thorough diagnosis and study of the patient’s history. You can get in touch for Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) diagnosis.
Among the risk factors are invariably distinguished:
- Pregnancy and childbirth.
- Prolonged bed rest during a complex illness.
- Varicose disease.
- Prolonged immobility of the body.
- Consequences of infectious diseases.
- Stroke, which is accompanied by paralysis of the limbs.
- Obesity.
- Oncological diseases.
- Uncontrolled intake of hormonal contraceptives.
- Increased blood clotting.
- Consequences of a puncture of veins.
For developing deep vein thrombosis, the action of one of the factors listed is sufficient. Therefore, with an increased risk of the disease, regular preventive medical examinations should be carried out.
Deep vein thrombosis symptoms:
- Pain in the area of blocked veins.
- Local swelling of the limb.
- Increase in body temperature.
- Seals in the direction of blood flow in the vessel.
Patients report an increase in Deep vein thrombosis symptoms over several days, which makes them seek medical help. In some cases, the development of the disease is asymptomatic, and only edematous phenomena indicate it.
Suppose the increase in swelling and a sharp increase in pain are accompanied by chest pain, fever, or coughing spells. In that case, contacting the nearest medical facility or calling an ambulance is recommended. Otherwise, there is a risk of separation of the thrombus and blockage of the vessels of the lungs.
Diagnostics of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
The initial deep vein thrombosis diagnosis can be made already at the initial examination of the affected areas with noticeable swelling and blood stasis. The following types of studies can confirm assumptions regarding DVT:
- Clinical blood test.
- X-ray examination with contrast allows you to see the lumen of the vessels and the formed blood clots that caused the blood flow disturbance.
- CT and MRI in vascular mode.
- Ultrasound diagnostics and its varieties – dopplerometry or angioscanning.
It is possible to conduct additional studies to clarify the cause and dynamics of the pathological process, significantly if the symptoms increase rapidly and cause significant inconvenience to the patient.
Treatment for deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
If the patient does not have a rapid increase in deep vein thrombosis symptoms, they are prescribed a conservative course of treatment. In the list of recommended drugs:
- Anticoagulants that reduce the chance of blood clots.
- Drugs that thin the blood. Their reception is possible only on the recommendation and under the supervision of a specialist.
Also, among the methods of treatment of the disease:
- Wearing compression bandages and underwear ordered individually. They have preventive and therapeutic value, mainly if the selection is carried out considering the doctor’s recommendations.
- Implantation of a cava filter into the cavity of the central vein prevents the migration of blood clots and reduces the risk of blockage of the pulmonary vessels. The filter installation can be temporary or permanent, carried out under local anesthesia, and does not involve prolonged patient hospitalization.
Prevention of deep vein thrombosis:
- Sleep and rest with elevated limbs.
- Refusal of long static loads, reduction of daily physical activity.
- Avoid situations that increase the risk of overheating or dehydration.
- Wearing compression stockings and comfortable shoes with orthopedic tabs.
- Regular moderate physical activity – running, cycling, long walks.
Other recommendations for treating deep vein thrombosis can be obtained from the attending phlebologist.
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