What is the full form of DVT?

The full form of DVT is Deep Vein Thrombosis. It corresponds to a blood clot that occurs deep inside your body in a vein, typically in the lower leg or thigh. In many other areas of the body also it can happen.

When a vein is weakened or blood flows poorly or ceases circulating in a vein, these clots are usually developed. It affects mainly people 50 years or older. DVT is a life-threatening condition, if anyone encounters any signs of this health issue, they must quickly consult the doctor.

Typical symptoms of DVT

• Swelling, usually on one side of the foot, ankle and leg.
• Ache including cramping in the impacted part of the leg.
• Severe foot or ankle discomfort.
• Redness in the affected region.
• Warm feelings over the region impacted.

Reasons for DVT

• The key elements might raise the risk of thrombosis development:
• Injured vein due to the injury like fracture of the bone
• Obesity appears to put additional strain on the veins throughout the legs or pelvis.
• Family Background of DVT Usage of medication for birth control
• Undergoing replacement therapy of hormone therapy
• Continuous bed rest during hospitalization.
• Inflammatory disorder of the bowel
• Heavy smoking habit
• Sitting for a prolonged time, like travelling or driving for long periods, or a watchman’s work.

DVT’s Complications

Pulmonary embolism

It happens when the blood clot breaks off and its fragments begin to circulate in the bloodstream, and a blood vessel that carries blood to the lung blocks one of the fragments.

Post-thrombotic syndrome

After DVT, there is chronic venous insufficiency. It happens as the DVT affects the vein valves and the blood starts circulating in the lower leg instead of flowing upwards. In certain situations, it causes long-term discomfort, swelling & ulcers.

Limb ischemia

In extreme cases of DVT, it happens. In this condition, the pressure in the vein becomes quite high because of the blood clot, which appears to obstruct blood in the arteries and therefore limits the supply of oxygen to the affected region. Typically, it is painful and can trigger skin ulcers & gangrene.

Prevention of DVT

• Stop sitting for long periods or standing idle
• Make a change towards lifestyles
• Periodical exercise
• Stop smoking
• Holding the optimal body weight
• Including a balanced diet
• Enhance the intake of fluids

Test for DVT

The doctor will perform the following diagnostic tests to determine DVT if he suspects you may have DVT.

• D-Dimer

It is a blood test that is done to identify parts of the blood clot that pass through the bloodstream after the blood clot starts to break down. A large number of bits are indicated by the presence of the blood clot in the vein.

• Venogram

A special dye is inserted into the veins of the foot in this procedure and then an X-ray of the veins is obtained whether a clot in the vein is visible. It is an excellent test for the identification of blood clots under the knee.

• Doppler ultrasound

Sound waves have been used in this procedure to track the blood as it travels via the blood vessels. It is appropriate well above the knee for the identification of wide blood clots.