DVT, short for deep vein thrombosis, occurs when there is a blood clot in a deeper vein. The clot, which is blood but in a solid-state, can prevent blood flow in the vein causing pain and discomfort. Also called venous thrombosis, this is a serious condition and shouldn’t be confused with varicose veins. While DVTs can occur anywhere in the body, the clots are typically seen in the legs and thighs. If you believe that you have DVT, check online for a St. Louis leg pain clinic without delay. Below is a quick overview of the symptoms, treatments, and other details.
What Are the Common Symptoms?
A lot of patients with DVT do not have symptoms, which also delays the diagnosis. Common symptoms include swelling in the legs, especially in the affected leg or foot, and pain that often feels like a cramp. If you have unexplained or sudden pain in one of your legs, ankles, or feet, check with a doctor immediately. The area with a blood clot or DVT will tend to feel warmer, and the skin may change color. If a patient has DVT in the neck, shoulder, and arms, they may have specific pain in the affected areas. What causes a blood clot? Blood clots, which eventually cause DVT, can occur for diverse reasons, including injury and surgery. People who sit for long hours are at a greater risk of such blood clots.
How Is DVT Treated?
If you have symptoms that may seem like DVT, don’t delay calling for medical help. Your doctor may do a few imaging tests to find the lot, and the treatment is usually focused on preventing the clot’s growth. Medications like blood thinners can be suggested, and patients who don’t respond to that line of treatment may need thrombolytic drugs, which break the clots. If you are overweight or are at risk of DVT, your doctor may recommend wearing compression stockings to prevent a clot. In some cases, removing a clot is necessary, and that can be done through surgery. Your doctor may perform a thrombectomy, which is a surgery to remove clots.
Surgery for DVT has its risks, which is precisely why doctors prefer to rely on exercise and medications for treatment. However, DVT needs attention. If you have experienced DVT before or have pain in one of your legs that doesn’t seem to get better, talk to your doctor immediately.
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