What is a Deep Vein Thrombosis?

If you have vein disease, you may be at increased risk for a deep vein thrombosis (DVT.) But what is this condition, who does it affect and how can it be prevented or treated? Keep reading to find out!

Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis

A DVT is a blood clot that forms in your deep veins. Typically, it forms in veins located in your thighs, lower legs or pelvis. Now, all blood clots can threaten your overall health. But a DVT is particularly dangerous. Because, if even a small portion of that clot breaks free and enters your bloodstream, it could travel to your lungs. There, it could form a blockage known as a pulmonary embolism. And if you don't receive prompt treatment for a pulmonary embolism, the condition could be life-threatening.

But how common are these embolisms? The American Lung Association reveals that about 900,000 Americans develop a pulmonary embolism each year. Of those patients, between 10 and 30% will die within one month of receiving a diagnosis. However, with preventative care or prompt treatment, we can prevent such tragic outcomes.

Causes and Symptoms

Several different factors can increase your risk for DVT. And these include your age, a family history of blood clots, any recent surgery (especially if you recover at home), and a sedentary lifestyle. Additional risks include long flights or car rides, making it very important to pay attention to DVT symptoms after traveling to distant destinations. Also, certain conditions such as May Thurner Syndrome, or inflammation in your vein wall (thrombophlebitis) increase your risk.

How will you know if a deep vein thrombosis is forming? Symptoms include swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth, and red spots or discoloration on the skin. Often, you'll notice these symptoms just below your knee, on the back of your leg. In some cases, however, the warning signs are subtle. So it's important to be aware of your DVT risk and get screened regularly if that risk level is elevated.

Treating Deep Vein Thrombosis in Dallas & Houston

If you develop a DVT, our treatment approach will work to prevent your clot size from growing; we'll also reduce your risk for additional clot formation and for serious complications like a pulmonary embolism. To that end, we may prescribe blood-thinning medication or compression wear to treat your blood clot in the legs. In severe cases, you may need to undergo an angioplasty procedure to remove your blood clot.

Preventing DVT with Proper Vein Care

At Texas Endovascular Associates, we focus on preventative vein care in order to reduce your risk for deep vein thrombosis. When you request an appointment request an appointment request an appointment at one of our Houston or Dallas area vein clinics, we can provide a diagnostic ultrasound to determine the current health of your veins. Afterward, we can identify any concerns that could increase your risk for DVT. And, together, we can come up with a customized treatment plan to prevent clots and boost your overall vein health!