A Serious Medical Issue You Need to Be Aware Of - Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

They’re probably something you don’t think too much about until you have to have blood taken, but your veins are one of the most important parts of your body. You know that they transfer blood throughout your body, and like all parts of the human body, your veins can experience serious problems; and when these problems arise, their affects can be critical.

There are several conditions that can affect the veins and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is one of them. This condition develops over time, and it usually doesn’t present any signs or symptoms until it has developed into a serious condition.

What exactly is deep vein thrombosis? What causes it and how can it affect your body? What are the signs and symptoms that you should be aware of? Keep on reading to learn about this very serious condition so that you can get the treatment you need before it progresses into a serious problem.

Understanding the Basics of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Though DVT is a very serious medical condition, it’s likely that you have never hear of it, like so many others. However, since the consequences can be deadly, it is vital that you do educate yourself about the condition so that you can get the help you need should you develop DVT.

What exactly is DVT? When a blood clot forms deep in the vein, this is called deep vein thrombosis. It usually occurs in the leg, in the calf or thigh, though it can happen in any part of the body. DVT can cause a partial or a total blockage of blood flow, which will eventually cause severe pain and swelling. In addition, it can cause damage to the valves in blood vessels, which could impact your ability to get walk (or use your arm, or whatever other part of the body has been affected).

Why it’s serious. DVT is a serious condition because the blood clot can break free and travel through your body and become lodged in a major organ, like your hear, your lungs, or even your brain, causing serious damage, and even death. This is why DVT needs to be treated as soon as possible; to prevent serious complications from happening.

Signs and symptoms to look for. It is estimated that more than half of the cases of DVT do not present any signs or symptoms. However, there are definite signs and symptoms that can occur, and if you notice any of them, you need to call your doctor right away. These signs and symptoms include:

• Pain in the affected area
• Swelling in the affected area
• in the skin where the blood clot is located
• Red or otherwise discolored skin
• Fatigue in the affected area
• Surface veins that are visible

What your doctor will do. If you believe you have DVT, your doctor will perform a series of tests to diagnose the condition. This includes a physical examination, and could also include a specialized test, such as a duplex ultrasound, venography or an MRI.

Treatment for DVT. There are two types of treatment options for DVT. These include treatment with medications, such as blood thinners, or surgery. The goal of the treatment is to prevent the blood clot from growing and/or breaking off and traveling to another part of the body. Through treatment, the blood clot will be reduced, which will prevent further complications from occurring. Your doctor will determine which type of treatment is best for your specific situation.

About the Author: John Davis recently underwent surgery for DVT, and thanks to the Bay Surgical Specialists, he is no longer afflicted with this condition.

John Davis recently underwent surgery for DVT.