Symptoms of DVT in the Legs
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is the formation of a blood clot that develops in the deep venous system. DVTs are most frequently formed in the lower extremities, and although they can occur in the upper extremities as well as the pelvis, it is much less common. DVT is an independent disease often mistaken for thrombophlebitis, which is a complication of chronic venous insufficiency.
Mechanisms of developing DVT belong to one of the three following factors:
- Abnormalities of the blood flow, such as decreased flow during prolonged periods of immobility during long plane flights or during hospitalization.
- Damage to the inside wall of the vein, for example, is the result of trauma or surgery.
- Hypercoagulability is a condition when the blood is too thick.
DVT Complications
Patients who have been diagnosed with DVT can experience painful symptoms impacting mobility and quality of life.
Short-term complications of DVT can lead to a life-threatening condition called Pulmonary Embolism (PE). Pulmonary embolism is caused by the detachment (embolization) of a DVT that travels to the lungs. Collectively, DVT and PE are known as venous thromboembolism (VTE). It is estimated that in the United States, 900,000 people are affected by VTEs yearly.
The long-term complication of DVT is Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS). This is when the blood clot damages the small valves of the vein which are responsible for propelling the blood in the right direction. This damage results in chronic pain, swelling, heaviness, cramping, skin discoloration, and the formation of venous ulcers. PTS occurs in up to 60% of patients with a history of DVT
DVT Risk Factors
- Family history of DVT
- Blood clotting disorders
- Extended periods of immobility or inactivity
- Recent surgery
- Injury or trauma
- Smoking
- Current or recent pregnancy
- Cancer diagnosis
- Advanced age (>60 yrs)
- Being overweight or obese
- Medications such as oral contraceptive pills and hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Symptoms of DVT in the Legs
Although most DVT can be asymptomatic, common signs and symptoms of DVT include:
- Swelling of leg
- Increased warmth and redness of skin in the swollen area
- Pain or tenderness
- Fatigue or heaviness of the leg
- Skin discoloration
- Smoking
What is the Treatment for DVT in Legs?
- Blood-thinning medications - Anticoagulant disrupts the body’s blood clotting mechanism and prevent clot formation.
- Thrombolysis/Thrombectomy - utilizing catheters with clot-dissolving medications placed directly into the clot and removed from the affected vein.
- Inferior Vena Cava (IVC)Filter - IVC is the large vein in the abdomen that is responsible for transporting blood from the extremities back to the heart. For patients who are not candidates for blood-thinning medication or catheter-based interventions, a filtering device that acts like a small net is placed in the IVC to catch any dislodged blood clots thus preventing a PE.
When Should I See a Doctor for Symptoms of DVT?
You should see a deep vein thrombosis doctor if DVT symptoms in your legs affect your daily activities. Persistent symptoms of DVT in the legs may be an indicator of “trophic changes,” or pathological developments in the tissue structure. This may indicate venous insufficiency that has gone untreated for a long time.
Whereas in the earlier stages of the disease pain can be relieved by rest or limb elevation, the later stages can lead to sensory neuropathy or damage of the nerve receptors. This damage can cause a variety of sensations. Left untreated, this tenderness can even lead to numbness.
The New York Vein Treatment Center offers exceptional care and treatment. Don’t wait until DVT symptoms develop into long-term complications. We are the premier treatment center in New York that offers comprehensive treatment for deep vein thrombosis symptoms in the legs and other venous diseases. If you are looking for relief from symptoms of DVT and need treatment, contact us today at (212) 575-8346 to schedule an appointment.
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