Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Treatment in Clinton, NJ
One leg that suddenly swells, aches, or turns warm or discolored can signal a blood clot forming in a deep vein, and that warrants prompt medical attention. The Vein Institute of Hunterdon provides deep vein thrombosis (DVT) treatment and diagnostic evaluation for patients throughout Clinton and the greater Hunterdon County area. If you catch a clot early, we can usually keep it in check before it grows or becomes more serious.
What Is DVT and Why Early Evaluation Is Essential
A deep vein thrombosis develops when blood clots inside one of the deeper veins, usually in the leg. The greater danger is a pulmonary embolism, which happens when part of the clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs. Together, these conditions are known as venous thromboembolism (VTE), and the CDC estimates that up to 900,000 Americans experience VTE each year.
Symptoms alone cannot confirm DVT, because muscle injuries, cellulitis, and other conditions mimic it, so professional evaluation early on is essential. Ignored, a DVT can bring lasting trouble: The CDC reports that one-third to one-half of people who have had one DVT develop post-thrombotic syndrome, marked by ongoing swelling, pain, and skin changes. Catching a clot promptly lets treatment and follow-up start right away.
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Recognizing Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Evaluation vs. Emergency Care
The most common symptoms of DVT appear in one affected limb and include swelling, pain or tenderness, warmth, and redness or other skin discoloration. Keep in mind that about half of people with DVT have no symptoms, and others notice only one or two.
Please call our office or go to the emergency room promptly if you develop new or unexplained leg swelling, tenderness, warmth, or discoloration, especially after any of the following:
- Surgery or hospitalization
- Long periods of immobility
- Pregnancy
- Cancer treatment
- A previous blood clot
Some symptoms are a medical emergency. If you experience sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, a rapid heartbeat, or you cough up blood, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away. These can be signs of a pulmonary embolism. Please note that we do not provide emergency or walk-in urgent care. Do not wait for a clinic appointment when these symptoms are present.
Advanced Vascular Ultrasound and In-Office DVT Evaluation
When DVT is suspected, duplex ultrasound is the standard imaging test. At our Clinton office, we begin by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors and examining the affected limb. If ultrasound is needed, the noninvasive examination uses sound waves instead of radiation to look for a clot and may involve brief pressure over tender areas.
Our practice is accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission, and your ultrasound is interpreted by physicians with dedicated vascular expertise. We then guide the next step in your care. Once a clot is confirmed, DVT treatment typically centers on anticoagulant medication, which keeps the clot from enlarging while your body breaks it down. The best treatment depends on where the clot is and how big it is, your risk of bleeding, and your general health. If it’s a complicated or urgent case, we arrange referral to the hospital.
Schedule Your DVT Consultation at Our Clinton Office
If you are noticing persistent leg symptoms, do not wait. Prompt deep vein thrombosis treatment can help keep a confirmed clot from enlarging and reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism. The Vein Institute of Hunterdon participates with many major insurance plans. Because benefits vary, we recommend confirming coverage with your insurer or our office before your visit. Call our Clinton office at (908) 788-0066 to schedule your DVT consultation. Remember to call 911 for chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, severe lightheadedness, or fainting.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Give us a call at
(908) 788-0066
or schedule a free vein consultation to learn more!