Diseases & Conditions

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis is a condition in which a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in your body, usually in your legs. Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition because a blood clot that has formed in your vein can break loose and travel to your lungs. This is called a pulmonary (lung) embolism. In severe cases, a pulmonary embolism can cause death. However, many instances of deep vein thrombosis disappear on their own.

Blood clots can also form in veins that are closer to the surface of your skin. But these clots — known as superficial venous thrombosis, phlebitis or thrombophlebitis — aren't typically dangerous because clots that form in the veins near the surface of the skin don't travel to your lungs.

Deep vein thrombosis — abbreviated DVT — can cause symptoms, such as leg pain, but often occurs without any symptoms. Deep vein thrombosis can have many causes, such as prolonged sitting or an inherited blood-clotting disorder that increases your risk of DVT. Recognize the symptoms and risk factors for deep vein thrombosis so that you can avoid serious complications of this disorder.

Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in the veins that are deep in your body, often in your legs. Blood clots can be caused by many different things — namely anything that causes your blood not to circulate or clot properly.

The primary complication to be concerned with in deep vein thrombosis is a pulmonary embolism. A pulmonary embolism occurs when an artery in your lung becomes blocked by a blood clot (thrombus) that travels to your lungs from another part of your body, usually your leg.

A pulmonary embolism can be fatal. So, it's important to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism and seek medical attention if they occur. Signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include:

• Chest pain or discomfort. This pain or discomfort usually gets worse when you take a deep breath or when you cough.
• Unexplained shortness of breath. This is the most common symptom.
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy, or fainting.
• Coughing up blood.
• A sense of anxiety or nervousness.

A common complication that can occur after deep vein thrombosis is a condition known as postphlebitic syndrome, also called post-thrombotic syndrome. This syndrome is used to describe a collection of signs and symptoms you may have, including swelling of your legs (edema), pain and skin discoloration. This syndrome is caused by damage to your veins from the blood clot. This damage reduces blood flow in the affected areas. The symptoms of postphlebitic syndrome may not occur until a few years after the DVT. Treatment options include medications such as aspirin or diuretics, as well as the use of compression stockings.