Deep Vein Thrombosis
What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis?
When you think of leg pain or swelling, you might blame a long day on your feet. But sometimes it’s more serious. Deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in your leg or thigh. This clot can block blood flow and may break free, traveling to your lungs and causing a life-threatening condition.
Each year, around 1 out of every 1,000 people in the United States is diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis. Even more concerning, over 200,000 people in the U.S. are affected by venous thrombosis each year, with up to 50,000 cases leading to life-threatening conditions.
How Is Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosed?
If your provider suspects deep vein thrombosis, they’ll start by checking your symptoms and risk factors. An ultrasound is the primary tool used to visualize how blood flows through your veins.
A blood test called a D-dimer might also be used to check for clotting activity in your body. In some cases, a special X-ray called a venogram can give a clearer picture. About 40% of patients with deep vein thrombosis also have life-threatening conditions at the time of diagnosis, which is why acting quickly is so important.
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Symptoms
Deep vein thrombosis doesn’t always come with obvious signs. If you do notice something, it might include:
- Swelling in one leg (sometimes both, but that’s rare)
- Throbbing or cramping pain in your calf or thigh
- Warm or tender skin over the clot
- Red or darker skin in the painful area
- Hard or sore veins that feel like a rope under your skin
If you suddenly feel shortness of breath or chest pain or start coughing up blood, get help immediately. These could be signs that a clot has moved to your lungs.
Causes and Risk Factors
A clot can form when blood flow slows down or when your blood becomes more likely to clot. Several things can increase your risk of deep vein thrombosis, including:
- Long periods of sitting still, like after surgery or during a long flight
- Injury or surgery affecting a vein
- Being over 60
- Being overweight or obese (extra weight puts pressure on your veins)
- Smoking, which changes how blood flows and clots
- Birth control pills or hormone therapy
- Pregnancy and up to six weeks after giving birth
- Chronic illnesses like cancer, heart failure or inflammatory bowel disease
- Family history of blood clots or certain genetic clotting conditions
Treatment
The primary goal of treatment is to prevent the clot from growing and to stop it from traveling to your lungs. Anticoagulation medications (blood thinners) are initiated at the time of diagnosis.
Common blood thinners include rivaroxaban, apixaban or warfarin, and most people take them for at least three months. If you’re pregnant, your provider may recommend injections instead.
In severe cases, other treatments might include:
- Clot-busting medications (used in serious situations)
- A filter placed in a large vein to catch clots if you can’t take blood thinners
- Surgery to remove the clot directly
Compression stockings and regular walking help improve blood flow and lower the risk of long-term problems. Up to 75% of patients with deep vein thrombosis may develop post-thrombotic syndrome within 5 to 10 years, leading to ongoing leg pain or swelling. That’s why follow-up care matters.
Prevention
There’s a lot you can do to lower your risk of deep vein thrombosis.
Do:
- Move around regularly, especially during long trips or after surgery
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Drink enough water
- Stay active; even short walks help
Don’t:
- Sit still for long periods without stretching your legs
- Smoke
- Cross your legs for long stretches
- Overdo it with alcohol
When you’re in the hospital, your provider might recommend compression stockings or medication to help keep your blood moving.
Need Help With Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Our providers at The Vein Institute of Hunterdon understand how stressful and scary deep vein thrombosis can feel. We’re here to help you every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. If you’re concerned about your risk or think you might have a clot, reach out today. Our practice is ready to support you with expert care that feels personal and reassuring.
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Give us a call at
(908) 788-0066
or schedule a free consultation to learn more!