What Is DVT?

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a painful condition that affects the lower leg and thigh area. Caused by a blood clot, DVT can lead to serious complications if not treated, such as pulmonary embolus, where the blood clot breaks free and enters the lungs. DVT is treatable with anticoagulant medications and surgery.

Cause

• DVT is caused by a blood clot that forms in the deep veins inside the body, caused when the blood inside the veins circulate or clot abnormally. According to the Mayo Clinic, it commonly affects the veins in one leg.

Symptoms

• According to Medline Plus, symptoms of DVT include pain, tenderness, swelling, or increased warmth in one leg, accompanied by redness or other skin color changes.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors that contribute to DVT include smoking cigarettes, being obese, sitting for a long time, taking estrogen or birth-control pills, having fractures, and prolonged bed rest. Giving birth within the past six months or having a recent surgery involving the hip, knee or the female reproductive system also increases a person's risk.

Treatment

• According to Medline Plus, heparin separates the blood clot, reducing symptoms. Sometimes other drugs, such as warfarin, blood clot removal surgery and placing a filter in the deep veins are also used.

Prevention

• People can prevent DVT by moving their legs often during long car or plane trips. Blood thinners and wearing special boots that periodically squeeze the calves also prevent DVT.