Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is defined as the occurrence of blood clot (thrombosis) in the deep vein. The blood clot mostly develops in legs in case of DVT. It mostly affects people above 60 years of age, but it can develop at any age. Blood clots in the lower leg or thigh have a higher tendency of breaking loose and these clots may travel to artery or lungs causing the blockage of blood flow. When the blood clot breaks loose the condition is termed as pulmonary embolism, which is a serious and life threatening condition.

A blood clot may develop, if you are sitting still for a long time due to a long ride or a plane travel. Another major cause of DVT is blood clotting disorder. Some of the risk factors resposible for DVT include;

• Injury (fracture of legs) or surgery of the veins
• Prolonged bed rest
• Ulcerative colitis (infectious disease of large intestine )
• Birth control medicines  
• Family history of DVT
• Smoking and obesity
• Heart failure

Symptoms 

• Changed skin color (red, pale or blue)
• Pain in legs and thigh
• Swelling of the affected area (mostly leg, ankle and foot)
• Warm and tender skin 

 Diagnosis 

The diagnosis of DVT involves physical examination by the doctor along with D-dimer blood test and dopler ultrasound test of the legs. Other blood tests may conducted to check the blood clotting disorders.CT or MRI scans may be used for visual images of the affected veins.

Treatment

Blood thinners (anti-coagulation therapy) dissolve the existing clots and stop the development of new blood clots.Heparin (usually through injections) and warfarin are the drugs usually given as an initial treatment for DVT. Wearing compression stocking is recommended by the doctor after anti-coagulation therapy. These stockings improve the flow of blood in the legs.Surgery is required, if there is a danger of pulmonary embolism or in case of large blood clot. Vena cava filters are also used to prevent pulmonary embolism, if blood thinners are not suitable for a patient.

DVT may disappear without causing any symptoms or complications, but the there are chances of recurrence. To prevent this condition doctors recommend diet which is rich in vitamin K. Moreover, during long journeys on a car or plane take some time to move the legs (a little walk or other movements). People at high risk of developing this condition may take a dose of heparin before traveling for long hours. Exercise on regular basis is recommended as obesity is considered as a risk factor of DVT. Controlling body weight and blood pressure reduces the risk.