Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot develops in one of the deep leg veins. If left undetected, the blood clot can dislodge and cause a blockage elsewhere in the body, such as the brain or lungs, which can cause life-threatening complications.
The risk of DVT increases with age and certain medical conditions, such as obesity and heart failure. Any condition that increases pressure on the leg veins, such as pregnancy, can also raise the risk of DVT.
Here at Advanced Heart & Vascular Associates, vascular intervention specialist Nader Chadda, MD, FACC, FSCAI, and the rest of our team don’t doesn’t take any chances with your vascular health. Intervention is swiftly implemented if you’re at risk of deep vein thrombosis.
Symptoms of DVT are often silent. Signs to watch out for on the affected leg include:
The subtle nature of DVT symptoms means it can go undiagnosed and untreated, giving it a chance to progress and increasing the chances of serious complications.
When DVT goes undetected, the blood clot can grow larger or dislodge, leading to a situation that can be life-threatening.
The most immediate and life-threatening danger of DVT is the potential for a clot to break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE).
The onset of these symptoms may come on without warning. If a clot from a DVT reaches the lungs, the consequences can be dire. Immediate medical intervention is essential to dissolve the clot and restore normal lung function.
Even if DVT doesn't lead to a PE, it can still result in long-term health issues. Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) is a condition that can occur after a DVT, causing chronic pain, swelling, and, in severe cases, skin changes and ulcers in the affected limb. PTS can significantly impact your quality of life and may require ongoing management.
Preventing DVT is key. Getting regular exercise, closely managing conditions that increase the risk of DVT, and lowering risk factors, such as prolonged immobility, are effective strategies in reducing the chances of developing DVT.
Timely medical intervention is crucial for individuals with or at risk for DVT. Dr. Chadda uses ultrasonography to look at the blood flow in your legs to detect blood clots.
He may also order a D-dimer blood test, which checks the levels of a substance in the blood that is released when a clot breaks up.
Treatment typically includes blood thinners, which prevent existing clots from growing and new ones from forming.
In some cases, additional interventions like clot removal or the insertion of a filter in the vena cava may be necessary. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential.
The collaboration between patients and health care providers is vital in the management of DVT, and you can rest assured that you’re in good hands with the team at Advanced Heart and Vascular Associates.
For top-quality vascular care, contact us by calling or messaging to schedule an appointment. We have offices in Hudson, and Brooksville, Florida.
