Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What is Thrombosis?

Thrombosis is a condition where a blood clot blocks the free circulation of blood. It is of two types based on the site of the clot. A clot in an artery is termed arterial thrombosis, and in veins, it is denoted as Venous Thrombosis. 

Venous Thrombosis is also called Deep Vein Thrombosis. It occurs when the clot is in one of the body's deep veins. It is usually found on the lower limb and pelvis; however, it can occur on any part of the body like the arm, lungs, kidney and even brain.  The clot interrupts the blood circulation partially or completely through the vein.

Causes of DVT

• Fracture
• Traumatic injury to vein may be or surgical
• Restricted mobility as in bedridden cases
• Obesity
• Genetic disorders
• Smoking
• Coagulation disorders
• Long term medications for hormonal therapy or Oral contraceptive pills
• Autoimmune disease
• Obesity 
• Old age

Symptoms of DVT

Symptoms are variable and may be presented with one or more which appear similar to any usual health concern, so ensure to consult your physician to rule out any complications.

• Oedema or swelling in the limb
• Aching legs only on exertion
• Tenderness or warmth on the swelling
• Redness of skin 
• The veins appear prominent 
• Pain in the calf or anterior aspect of the thigh
• Disoriented speech or mentality
• Chest pain
• Loss of sensation
• Breathlessness 
• Palpitation
• Excruciating pain in the chest 
• Fatigue on mild  exertion
• Cough 
• Profuse sweating

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on the physical examination and medical history correlated with the other diagnostic investigations. This can be segmented as:

Haematological Investigation: 

• Complete routine blood tests
• D-Dimer test - a confirmatory test for the clot

Magnetic Resonance Imaging to rule out Deep Vein Thrombosis in the abdominal region.

Computed Topography to locate Deep vein thrombosis in abdomen and clots in the chest and thoracic region, and clots in lungs to rule out Pulmonary Embolism.

Duplex Ultrasound  -  A series of USG done consecutively to assess the progress of blood clots.

Venography to identify clots.

Treatment for Deep Vein Thrombosis

The treatment modality depends on age, health condition and medical history, tolerance to drug therapy, and Prognosis.

Treatment is prioritised to:

•  Inhibit the expansion of the clot
•  Inhibit the clot movement to lungs on the breakdown
•  Hamper the relapse of another Deep Vein Thrombosis

Anticoagulant Drugs: 

 To inhibit the expansion and movement of drugs.

Compression Stockings:

 Wear below the knee as a symptomatic treatment to shrink the swelling.

Vena Cava Filters:

 An implant is used to prevent the lodging of blood clots to the lungs to avoid Pulmonary Embolism.

 Complications of Deep Vein Thrombosis

• Stroke 
• Cardiac Arrest

Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis

• Postoperative physiotherapy and exercises according to the guidance.
• Physical activity
• Exercising your legs during long trips
• Lifestyle modification
• Maintain optimum body weight.
• Management of other comorbid conditions like Diabetes, hyperlipidaemia and Hypertension 

Conclusion

Deep Vein Thrombosis can be fatal. Timely treatment intervention can prevent the escalation of this condition to stroke or cardiac arrest. If you encounter any of the symptoms, immediately contact your physician to rule out the complications.