Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs when blood thickens and clumps into a clot of blood within one of the deep veins in the body. This can occur in any part of the body but most commonly in the calf or thighs.

Causes of DVT

Although small clots can occur in the blood stream, these are usually as a result of a trauma or bruise on the skin and are quickly broken down and absorbed. Deep vein clots tend to be larger and carry a risk that they may break free and flow into the heart or lungs, which creates serious complications and sometimes even death.

While there is no obvious exclusive cause of DVT there are a number of factors which are known to increase the risk of development. These include;

• Being immobile- Whether it is a result of illness or hospitalization, long haul flying or travelling or sitting for prolonged periods of time, being immobile can significantly increase the risk of development.  This can be relieved by trying to stretch or move the limbs as frequently as possible and trying to stay hydrated. If you are travelling long haul, try to walk around the cabin periodically and avoid alcohol. If you are immobile due to illness or a static work regime, you could try to rotate the ankles and move the limbs as much as you can.
• Smoking- Being a smoker affects a great many of the body’s functions including affecting the blood flow.
• Obesity- Being severely overweight or obese puts a greater strain on the heart and circulation.
• Trauma- Serious injury or the after effects of invasive surgery may increase risk
• Medications- There is a certain number of medications, such as certain forms of oral contraceptives which can increase the risk. If you are worried about this, speak to your medical care professional to see if there is an alternative medication available.

Symptoms

There are several warning signs which indicate you may be suffering from DVT. These include;

• Swelling- this is usually obvious when comparing one leg to the other
• Extreme tenderness – If you experience extreme tenderness in the back of the thigh or calf when standing or walking around
• Warmth- If your skin in a specific spot feels suddenly warmer for no apparent reason
• Redness- If a patch of redness appears with no explanation.

These symptoms can appear at any time and should be investigated by a medical professional. Your medical practitioner will conduct some non-invasive tests together with some medical history questions to ascertain whether further investigation or treatment is required.  Due to the risk of potential complications which can occur due to DVT, if you suspect you are suffering from one or more of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice as quickly as possible.

If you are worried about DVT or would like further information, please contact us. Our St. Louis staff would be happy to assist you with any questions or queries you may have relating to your personal circumstances.The Causes of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs when blood thickens and clumps into a clot of blood within one of the deep veins in the body. This can occur in any part of the body but most commonly in the calf or thighs.

Causes of DVT

Although small clots can occur in the blood stream, these are usually as a result of a trauma or bruise on the skin and are quickly broken down and absorbed. Deep vein clots tend to be larger and carry a risk that they may break free and flow into the heart or lungs, which creates serious complications and sometimes even death.

While there is no obvious exclusive cause of DVT there are a number of factors which are known to increase the risk of development. These include;

• Being immobile- Whether it is a result of illness or hospitalization, long haul flying or travelling or sitting for prolonged periods of time, being immobile can significantly increase the risk of development.  This can be relieved by trying to stretch or move the limbs as frequently as possible and trying to stay hydrated. If you are travelling long haul, try to walk around the cabin periodically and avoid alcohol. If you are immobile due to illness or a static work regime, you could try to rotate the ankles and move the limbs as much as you can.
• Smoking- Being a smoker affects a great many of the body’s functions including affecting the blood flow.
• Obesity- Being severely overweight or obese puts a greater strain on the heart and circulation.
• Trauma- Serious injury or the after effects of invasive surgery may increase risk
• Medications- There is a certain number of medications, such as certain forms of oral contraceptives which can increase the risk. If you are worried about this, speak to your medical care professional to see if there is an alternative medication available.

Symptoms

There are several warning signs which indicate you may be suffering from DVT. These include;

• Swelling- this is usually obvious when comparing one leg to the other
• Extreme tenderness – If you experience extreme tenderness in the back of the thigh or calf when standing or walking around
• Warmth- If your skin in a specific spot feels suddenly warmer for no apparent reason
• Redness- If a patch of redness appears with no explanation.

These symptoms can appear at any time and should be investigated by a medical professional. Your medical practitioner will conduct some non-invasive tests together with some medical history questions to ascertain whether further investigation or treatment is required.  Due to the risk of potential complications which can occur due to DVT, if you suspect you are suffering from one or more of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice as quickly as possible.

If you are worried about DVT or would like further information, please contact us. Our St. Louis staff would be happy to assist you with any questions or queries you may have relating to your personal circumstances.