Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein resulting in either a partial or complete block of circulation, most often found in the lower leg, thigh or pelvis. Blood clots are caused by anything that prevents blood from circulating or clotting properly. Even though DVT itself is non-life threatening, it is a very serious condition because a blood clot could break free and travel to the lungs causing a pulmonary embolism. 

 

Risk Factors for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

• Recent surgery (commonly orthopedic surgery such as hip or knee)
• Family or personal history of blood clots
• Hormonal changes such as pregnancy, hormone therapy or use of oral contraceptives
• Obesity
• Tobacco use
• Prolonged sitting or bed rest

Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Symptoms of DVT range from mild to severe and typically affect your foot, leg or arm. The most common symptoms are:

• Pain or tenderness
• Swelling
• Skin discoloration (blue or red tinted skin)
• Warmth (skin feels warmer than usual)

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Treatment

Anticoagulants, or blood thinners, are most commonly used to treat patients with deep vein thrombosis. These medicines keep blood from clotting effectively and prevent the clot from growing as well as prevent new ones from forming. Compression stockings, garments that squeeze your legs to help blood move upward in order to prevent swelling and blood clots by improving blood flow, may also be recommended. 

In some cases, surgically inserting an inferior vena cava filter is considered for deep vein thrombosis treatment. This filter is placed in the large vein that returns blood back to your heart from the lower part of your body, the inferior vena cava, and serves to trap blood clots, thus preventing them from reaching your lungs. 

 

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Complications

Complications of DVT include:

• Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) - otherwise known as post-phlebitic syndrome, a condition that affects about 40 percent of people with deep vein thrombosis and can include pain, cramps and heaviness in the leg.
• Pulmonary Embolism

Talk to your doctor if you continue to experience symptoms after treatment for deep vein thrombosis. 

 

Visit a Vein Specialist

The board certified cardiovascular specialists at Warren Clinic Cardiology of Tulsa are specially trained to care for deep vein thrombosis. Call 918-494-8500 to learn more or to schedule a consultation. 

Learn More About Cardiology Care at Saint Francis Health System

Cardiology services are available at many locations including Tulsa and Muskogee. To find a cardiology location or specialist near you, search our online directories or call Saint Francis HealthLink at 918-488-6688.