Medical Description

Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is the formation of a blood clot, or thrombus, in a deep vein. Leg veins, such as femoral vein or poplitel vein, are the most commonly affected areas. Sometimes, the veins of the arms are affected. DVT usually occurs when the blood clot either partially or completely blocks the flow of blood in the vein.

DVT may be hard to detect and it is not uncommon to develop DVT without any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

Symptoms

• Unexplained shortness of breath
• Chest pain or breathing
• Rapid heart rate
• Unexplained coughing
• Coughing up blood
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy, or fainting
• Sense of anxiety or nervousness.
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Swelling in the affected legs, ankles, or feet
• Pain in your legs
• Redness and warmth over the affected area
• Pain or swelling in your arms or neck

General Information

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition in which blood clot, or thrombus, forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body. DVT usually develops in the legs and sometimes in the veins of arms.

DVT can lead to pulmonary embolism because blood clot that has formed in the veins can dislodge and travel to the lungs. This could cause death. However, many instances of DVT disappear on their own.

DVT can cause symptoms such as leg pain, however DVT can also occur without any sign or symptoms. There are many causes of DVT. DVT can occur when a person prolong sitting or an inherited blood-clotting disorder that increases the risk of DVT to occur.

There are various form of treatment for DVT. Some practical measures, such as elevating the legs, can be used to help treat DVT. Drugs is another form of treatment forDVT and usually fall into two categories, anticoagulants or thrombolytic agents.

Those unable to take medication for DVT may undergo a surgical procedure which inserts a small metal filter inside the large vein leading to the heart to prevent breakaway clots from traveling. A clot may also be surgically removed or withdrawn by using a catheter.

Sources: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The Mayo Clinic. www.mayoclinic.com August 8, 2007.Retrieved September 20, 2007; All About DVT, www.dvt.net April 2006, retrieved September 20, 2007.

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