Deep Vein Thrombosis and its relationship to podiatry

Deep Vein Thrombosis and its relationship to podiatry

What exactly is a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?

DVT is when a blog clot forms in the deep veins, this most commonly occurs in the legs. Symptoms of a DVT can include pain, swelling, redness in the leg. These symptoms can present themselves in different medical conditions, such as infection or lymphedema, therefore, if someone suspects they have a DVT IMMEDIATE medical attention should be sought.

How does a DVT develop?

There are three main risk factors for developing a DVT. They are venous stasis, hypercoagulability and damage to the endothelium. Venous stasis is when the veins are static and not moving. Hypercoagulability is when the blood has a higher change of clotting. Endothelial damage is damage to the blood vessels. Each of these causes has multiple causes. These 3 risks factors together are known as Virchow’s triad. The more risk factors a person has the higher chance of developing a DVT.

Who is at risk for developing a DVT?

Taking Virchow’s triad into consideration the following are some of the risk factors for developing a DVT: immobilization, obesity, surgery, birth control pills, age, cancer, pregnancy, trauma to the leg, infection, HIV and blood clotting disorders etc. There are many other risks factors, but these are the common ones.

How are DVT’s diagnosed and treated?

Immediate diagnosis is critical because if a DVT goes undiagnosed it can travel to the lungs, cause a Pulmonary Embolism and possible death. If a patient has a painful, swollen, red calf an Ultrasound should be performed immediately. There is a blood test that can help rule out a DVT but it is not as sensitive as the ultrasound in diagnosing a DVT.

A DVT is treated with anticoagulation medication, such as Coumadin, Lovenox, or  Xarelto . Treatment is usually required for a few months after a DVT is diagnosed. If someone has a history of DVT a filter can be placed surgically in their veins.

Can I prevent a DVT?

If someone has many risks factors they can take medication for prevention. In addition, exercise, compression stockings and staying active can help.

For more information, please visit our website at www.footnj.com