It is estimated that nearly 900,000 Americans are affected by deep vein thrombosis or DVT each year in the US. This serious condition often goes unnoticed for long periods of time but can lead to life-threatening additional problems that must be addressed right away. Up ahead, we will outline what deep vein thrombosis is, what the complications of DVT involve, your risk factors, and more important information about DVT.
What Is DVT?
DVT Stands for deep vein thrombosis. The condition occurs when, deep in a vein within your body, a blood clot forms. Most commonly, these clots can be found in the lower half of the body — in the pelvis, thigh, or, more often than not, the lower leg. Keep in mind, however, that even though most blood clots are found in the lower half of the body, they can also be found elsewhere, such as in the arm.
Complications of DVT
There are serious complications related to deep vein thrombosis. These include post-thrombotic syndrome as well as chronic venous insufficiency. Lastly, some people who have deep vein thrombosis will later have a pulmonary embolism.
DVT Risk Factors
Certain risk factors may make you more likely to get a blood clot. For example, if you have a close family member who has had a blood clot before, you are more likely to have one as well. If you’ve had one personally, your chances are higher that you’ll have another two.
In general, those over the age of 40 are also more likely to get blood clots, as are those who sit or who are on bed rest for long periods of time. Finally, women who have recently given birth or who are pregnant and women who are currently taking birth control are all at higher risk of blood clots.
Why DVT Leads to Pulmonary Embolisms
When a blood clot forms in a deep vein within your leg or elsewhere on the body, it can then travel through your body and may reach the lungs. If it reaches one of the arteries in your lungs, this can cause a blockage, which can lead to death.
Diagnosing DVT & PE
If you think you may have DVT or a pulmonary embolism, it is important to seek medical attention right away. A pulmonary embolism is even more of an emergency than DVT. If you are having symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, call 911 immediately.
Contact Our Vein Doctors at The Kimmel Institute of Florida
There is help for deep vein thrombosis and those who are at higher risk of deep vein thrombosis. Our doctors can help treat your venous issues.
Meet Our Vein Physicians in Florida
If you would like to learn more about the risk factors affecting deep vein thrombosis, schedule an appointment at our West Palm Beach, Florida offices today. whether you live in the Boca Raton or Fort Lauderdale areas, we can help determine your individual risk factors and assess and diagnose your condition if you’re struggling with symptoms.
