Deep Vein Thrombosis: How Dangerous Is It?

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in East Orlando forms in the leg’s deep veins. If it develops in the thigh, it can lead to pulmonary embolism, which occurs when the clot breaks off and ends up in the bloodstream, blocking the lungs’ blood vessels. This condition can be fatal. 

Symptoms of DVT

DVT presents symptoms only in the impacted limb. The symptoms a person may experience can be mild or severe. Some people may experience more than one symptom. These symptoms include swelling, redness, and pain. A DVT that has traveled to the lungs can present symptoms such as chest pain, persistent cough, shortness of breath, and productive cough. 

Complications

A DVT that stays in the leg vein can lead to many complications such as phlebitis and leg ulcers. But, again, pulmonary embolism is the main danger of DVT. Studies show that a lot of peels with pulmonary embolism will die. But, patients can consider treatments like thrombolytic and anticoagulant medications. Such medications can dissolve the blood clot and restore proper blood flow. 

How Blood Clot Develops in the Veins

Normally, blood flows through veins quickly without clotting. Leg movements help the proper flow of blood in the leg veins since muscle action will squeeze them. In some instances, the cause of DVT is not obvious. But, the factors below increase a person’s risk of developing a DVT:

• A surgical procedure under general anesthetic- Since the legs are temporarily paralyzed, the flow of blood to the veins can be quite slow, increasing the chances of clot formation. A person’s risk of DVT can increase with some kind of surgery.
• An Illness or injury- A person’s risk of DVT can increase because of an illness or injury that causes immobility. This can happen when a leg is in a hard plaster cast following a fracture. 
• Long journey- A DVT may occur because of a long journey because a person may be sitting still for a long time. 

Living With DVT

Those who have DVT should seek treatment immediately. It takes around 3-6 months for a clot to disappear. During this time, a sufferer can relieve their symptoms by elevating their legs to relieve swelling. Also, they must speak with their doctor about the use of compression stockings, which cover the arch of their foot up to their knee. These stockings create pressure on their legs, reducing swelling and alleviating pain. 

In some cases, the blood clot may not dissolve completely, resulting in scar tissue in the veins. And when a DVT results in post-thrombotic syndrome, it can cause chronic pain and swelling.