How to Understand DVT

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition in which a condition in which blood clot forms in a deep vein. It usually affects the deep veins in the leg or pelvis but may also occur in the arm veins. A DVT has many possible causes and risk factors, especially a sedentary lifestyle. It frequently causes pain and swelling in the affected area but may also be symptomatic.

Things You'll Need

• Medical reference book or website

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Instructions

• 1

  Learn the risk factors for DVT. Factors that increase the chances of developing a DVT include prolonged bed rest and sitting in the same position for a long period of time. Smoking, bone fractures, obesity and recent surgery are also significant risk factors of DVT. The risk of DVT also increases with age, especially over the age of 60 years.

• 2

  Look for conditions that make the blood clot faster. For example, polycythemia vera is a condition which involves an overproduction of red blood cells and carries a significant risk of DVT.

• 3

  Examine the symptoms of DVT. The most common symptoms of DVT are redness, swelling and pain in one leg. The affected limb may also become warmer and sensitive to touch.

• 4

  Study the tests for DVT. An intravenous venography is the standard diagnostic procedure for diagnosing a DVT. This procedure involves injecting a peripheral vein with a contrast dye. A technician then takes X-rays of the affected limb and looks for obstructions in the veins. This test is rarely performed due to its invasiveness and ultrasound imaging is a more common diagnostic procedure for a DVT.

• 5

  Observe the treatment for DVT. The standard treatment for DVT is injections of an anticoagulant called heparin. This medication is usually combined with warfarin, which is an anticoagulant taken orally. Severe cases of DVT may require surgery to remove.