Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis

UnderstandingDeep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Causes, Risks & Prevention

DeepVein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition that occurs when a bloodclot (thrombus) forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs. While the termmay sound technical, the consequences of DVT can be life-threatening,especially if the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonaryembolism (PE).

Thisblog explores what DVT is, its causes, risk factors, and how it can beprevented.

  What Is DeepVein Thrombosis?

Veins are responsible forcarrying deoxygenated blood back to the heart. Deep veins are located deeper inthe body, often running between muscles. When a clot forms in these veins, itcan restrict blood flow and lead to swelling, pain, and in some cases, severecomplications.

The most common site forDVT is the lower legor thigh, though it can occur in other parts of the body aswell.

What CausesDeep Vein Thrombosis?

The causes of DVT canvary from person to person, and in many cases, more than one risk factor may beinvolved. However, here are some of the most common and medically recognizedcauses:

1. Long-Term Immobilization

One of the leading causesof DVT is immobility,particularly for extended periods. When a person remains still for toolong—such as during prolonged bed rest, recovery after surgery, or long-haultravel—the muscles that usually help push blood through the veins are inactive.This slows down circulation and can lead to clot formation.

Common Scenarios:

· Bedriddenpatients

·   Longflights or car rides

·  Post-operativerecovery

·  Paralysisor severe injury

2. Complicated Fractures

Major fractures,especially of the pelvis,hip, or legs, are another major contributor to DVT. When a boneis broken, the surrounding blood vessels and tissues are also affected, leadingto inflammation and reduced mobility. The trauma from such injuries oftentriggers the body's clotting mechanisms as part of the healing process,increasing the risk of DVT.

Why It Happens:

· Bloodvessel damage during injury

· Immobilizationdue to casts or surgery

· Inflammatoryresponse triggering clotting

3. Blood-Related Disorders

Other Contributing Risk Factors

In addition to the above,several other factors may increase the risk of DVT:

· Surgery, especially orthopedic orabdominal

· Cancerand cancer treatment

· Hormonetherapy,including birth control pills or hormone replacement

· Pregnancyand postpartum period

· Obesity

· Smoking

· Olderage (riskincreases after 60)

·  Familyhistory of DVT or PE

At Banker’s VascularHospital, we often see patients presenting with symptoms of DVTthat vary in severity depending on the extent and location of the thrombus(clot). In many cases, the firstand most noticeable sign is significant swelling in oneleg—especially in the calf or thigh. This swelling may come on gradually orsuddenly, and it is often accompanied by pain,tightness, or a heavy sensation in the limb.

Patients frequently report discomfort ortenderness at the site of the clot, which may feel worse whenwalking or standing. In more severe cases,the pain can be intense enough that the patient is unable to walk or bear weighton the affected leg. The skin may appear reddish or bluish,and feel warm to the touch

Thesesymptoms are clinical red flags, and immediate diagnostic evaluation—usuallystarting with avenous Doppler ultrasound—is performed to confirm the presenceand location of the thrombus. Once diagnosed, prompt treatment is essential toreduce the risk of complications such as pulmonary embolism or long-term venousinsufficiency.

 How We Diagnose DVT at Banker’s Vascular Hospital

At Banker’s Vascular Hospital,we begin by carefully evaluating each patient based on their symptoms—such asswelling, pain, or difficulty walking. To confirm the presence of a clot, wetypically start with a venousDoppler ultrasound, which helps us visualize blood flow in thedeep veins.

If we suspect a clot, wemay also perform further tests like a CT venography or D-dimertest, depending on the situation. These tests help us determinehow severe the blockage is.

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When a thrombus (clot)forms, it reduces the diameterof the deep vein, making it harder for blood to flow back uptoward the heart. This leads to swelling,and the pressure from this backed-up blood stretches nearby tissues, causing pain at the clot site.

Early diagnosis andtreatment are key to preventing complications and relieving symptoms.

Treatment of DVT: What We Do atBanker’s Vascular Hospital

The treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis(DVT) depends largely on the timing and severity of the condition.

If the DVT is detected early andsymptoms are still acute,it can often be managed effectively with medicationssuch as anticoagulants(blood thinners) to prevent the clot from growing and reducethe risk of complications.

However, if the DVTbecomes chronicor if the clot is large and causing severe symptoms, then advanced interventionsmay be necessary. These can include catheter-basedprocedures, thrombolysis,or even surgicaloptions, depending on the patient's condition.

At Banker’s Vascular Hospital,our highly experienced vascular team conducts a thorough diagnosis and createsa personalizedtreatment plan tailored to each patient, ensuring the bestpossible outcome.