What is deep vein thrombosis?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT, also called venous thrombosis) is a blood clot
that develops in a vein deep in the body. The clot may partially or completely
block blood flow through the vein. Most DVTs occur in the lower leg, thigh or
pelvis, although they also can occur in other parts of the body including the
arm, brain, intestines, liver or kidney.
What is the danger of DVT?
Even though DVT itself is not life-threatening, the blood clot has the
potential to break free and travel through the bloodstream, where it can become
lodged in the blood vessels of the lung (known as a pulmonary embolism).
This can be a life-threatening condition. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and treatment are necessary.
DVT can also lead to complications in the legs referred to as chronic
venous insufficiency or the post-thrombotic syndrome. This condition
is characterized by pooling of blood, chronic leg swelling, increased pressure,
increased pigmentation or discoloration of the skin, and leg ulcers known as venous stasis ulcer.
What is the difference between DVT and a superficial venous thrombosis?
A superficial venous thrombosis (also called phlebitis or superficial
thrombophlebitis) is a blood clot that develops in a vein close to the
surface of the skin. These types of blood clots do not usually travel to the
lungs unless they move from the superficial system into the deep venous system first.
What are the symptoms of DVT?
DVT most commonly occurs in just one leg or one arm. Not everyone with DVT
will experience symptoms, although when present, they may include:
- Swelling of the leg or arm (sometimes it occurs suddenly)
- Pain or tenderness in the leg that may only be present when standing or walking
- Feeling of increased warmth in the area of the leg or arm that
is swollen or that hurts
- Redness or discoloration of the skin
- Enlargement of the superficial veins in the affected leg or arm
Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include:
- (Sudden) shortness of breath
- Sharp chest pain, often aggravated by coughing or movement
- Pain in the back
- Cough with or without bloody sputum
- Excessive sweating
- Rapid pulse or breathing
- Lightheadedness or passing out
Some people only find out they have DVT after the clot has moved from the leg
or arm and traveled to the lung.
It is important to notify your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room
if you have symptoms of a pulmonary embolism or DVT. Do not wait to see if
the symptoms will "go away." Get treatment right away to prevent serious complications.