Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is caused by blood clot formation in any major veins in the body. It is most commonly seen in the leg. The other areas that are affected by DVT include groin, arm, and other large veins. It can happen at any age but is more common in the elderly. Read further to know more about the causes and symptoms of DVT.

Causes of DVT

  • Immobilization – either temporary immobilization (example: Prolonged sitting) or chronic immobilization (medical conditions requiring prolonged bed rest)
  • Increased blood viscosity due to an increase in conditions such as thrombocytosis or polycythemia rubra vera) or a decrease in the fluid component due to dehydration.
  • Diminution or absence of the inferior vena cava or iliac veins
  • Certain medical conditions 
  • Trauma to the veins due (examples: spine injuries, broken hip, or leg bone)
  • Surgeries particularly joint replacement
  • Acute urinary tract or respiratory infections
  • Peripherally inserted venous catheters
  • Intravenous drug abuse
  • Genetic factors such as deficiencies of coagulation inhibitors and altered clotting factors among others
  • Smoking
  • Certain medications

Risk factors of DVT

  • Pregnant women
  • Progressing age (after age 40, the risk of DVT almost doubles every 10 years)
  • Post major surgery (particularly of the spine, hip, and knee replacement)
  • Cancers and anticancer therapies
  • Obesity
  • A blood clot occurring in a vein with no apparent reason or risk factor 

Symptoms of DVT

  • Evident swelling or discomfort near the blood clot in the leg or other cases
  • Feeling of warmth, aching, or cramps, in the affected area usually the calf or thigh
  • Pain in the leg
  • Reddish or purplish discoloration of the skin
  • Cord-like indurated tender and palpable veins
  • Very rarely, there may be two severe, potentially life-threatening clinical presentations known as the phlegmasia cerulea dolens (PCD) which is a painful bluish inflammation of the affected limb with or without petechiae and phlegmasia alba dolens (PAD) which is a painful white inflammation limb turns pale, and shows distended superficial veins

If left untreated DVT can restrict or block blood flow and oxygen, leading to severe complications such as pulmonary embolism and post-thrombotic syndrome), disability. If you feel you may have DVT or if you are experiencing any of the above discussed symptoms, do not overlook your symptoms consult Practo Care Surgeries. With Practo Care Surgeries you can be assured of effective and affordable treatment for correction of DVT. 

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