Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein located in the body. They often form in the legs, but they can occur in deep veins in other locations throughout your body. A DVT requires immediate treatment and can result in life-threatening conditions. While a DVT can occur with anyone, several factors can increase your risk of developing one. You are at increased risk of a DVT if you:
- have had a previous blood clot before.
- have a family history of DVTs.
- are over the age of 40.
- are on bed rest or spend long periods in a seated position.
- have inherited certain genes, such as factor V Leiden which can cause your blood to clot more easily.
- are pregnant or have recently given birth.
- have a blood clotting condition.
- are overweight.
- have other underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, IBS, or cancer.
Symptoms of a DVT
While in some cases, there are no symptoms of a DVT when it occurs, most often, you will experience one or more of the symptoms below.
Swelling
The most common symptom of a DVT is swelling in the leg where the clot is. Both legs will rarely swell with a DVT, but it should still be checked to rule it out.
Pain
The pain is often described as a constant soreness or cramping sensation. The pain will be in the area where the clot is, which is most often a leg. When it occurs in the leg, the pain typically starts in the calf and moves upwards. In some cases, pain will accompany the swelling.
Discoloration
The area where the DVT is located may become red or discolored, with a sense of warmth sometimes occurring in the same area where the discoloration is. Discoloration may be bright red or in uneven patches. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should seek medical care to check for a DVT.
When to Seek Emergency Help
DVTs can lead to a life-threatening complication called a pulmonary embolism, or PE. If a pulmonary embolism occurs, you will need to seek emergency medical treatment. Symptoms that could mean a pulmonary embolism has occurred, and emergency care should be sought include:
- Pain in the chest that becomes sharper when breathing deeply or coughing.
- Sudden bouts of shortness of breath.
- A rapid heartbeat.
- Quick, shallow breathing.
- Lightheaded or dizzy feeling, with or without fainting.
- Sudden coughing that produces blood.
- Tightness in your chest.
- Painful breathing.
- Pain in your back, arm, shoulder, or jaw.
Due to the severe and life-threatening complications that can occur with a DVT, it is critical to seek care if you have the symptoms of a DVT and heart-related or breathing symptoms.
Get Your Varicose Veins Treated at Tri-City Vein
If you live in or around the Phoenix, Arizona area and are looking for vein treatment, then scheduling an appointment with one of the expert phlebologists at Tri-City Vein is the perfect option. The professionals at Tri-City Vein provide many vein treatment options to help them treat and cure a wide range of venous disorders, providing you with the best options for your medical needs. Schedule your consultation with one of our expert vein physicians in Phoenix to find the right options and start your vein treatment journey. We have proven procedures guaranteed to work, solving your venous medical concerns, and getting you on the road to recovery. Contact us today at (480) 835-6100 to book your appointment.…
