Can DVT be prevented?

To ensure varicose vein do not escalate and develop into blood clots or DVT, the cause of the issue should be treated. This includes treatment options such as Endovenous Therapy, Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy, Medical Superglue. For non-surgical options to treat the symptoms of DVT, consider a device such as OnPulse by Geko. It is a wearable device which compresses the venous system to stimulate blood in deep calf veins. Additionally, medical-grade compression garments have been proven to increase blood circulation and protect against vein disease. The OnPulse by Geko, knee-high stockings and thigh-high stockings are available at The Vein Institute Shop.

What are the risks associated with Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Risk factors that increase your likelihood of developing DVT are similar to those for other vein diseases. These include: Age (being over 60). Heredity (whether a family member has had it). Obesity. Smoking. Pregnancy, and the use of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Another risk factor for DVT is reduced mobility, caused by long periods of hospitalisation or sitting in one position for hours. Such as long-distance travel. DVT can also be triggered by injuries to blood vessels incurred as the result of trauma or during surgery. The question of whether having varicose veins is a significant risk factor for DVT is more controversial. Because a clear cause-and-effect relationship has not been firmly established. However, in a study reported in the German journal VASA, researchers found that 5.6% of patients with varicose veins developed DVT. Compared to 0.9% of the control group without varicose veins. They also found that those with varicose veins who also had a history of previous venous thromboembolism or a recent hospital discharge were even more at risk. For more information see our article on how to Prevent Varicose Veins during Long Haul Travel.

In most cases DVT, once diagnosed, can be effectively treated using anticoagulant medications such as heparin and warfarin. In some cases, “clot-busting” thrombolytic agents are used, and in rare cases, surgery may be required. To determine your own risk for DVT, use our vein self-assessment tool that allows you to identify your specific vein issue so you can find the help you need. Or ask your specialist at The Vein Institute. They can diagnose the presence of blood clots using Duplex ultrasound or venography (injecting a dye into the vein that then reveals blockages in X-rays). Your vein doctor can also recommend diet and lifestyle changes to reduce your DVT risk if your risk level is high for hereditary or other reasons.

Deep Vein Thrombosis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in a deep vein; ie., one of the large trunk veins in your muscle or bone that connect your heart and lungs with the superficial “surface” veins all over your body. When a clot like this forms, it can have varied health effects depending on where it occurs. Thrombosis may be a singular incident or a more chronic problem. However, the good news is that there are ways to minimise your risk and even treat the condition.

What causes Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Symptoms of DVT: What does Deep Vein Thrombosis feel like?

The primary symptoms of DVT are a painful, cramp-like feeling and swelling. Other symptoms that may be present include:

Redness
The affected area may feel warm to the touch
Altered mobility of the leg. If you find that bending the foot or knee causes more pain, it can be a sign of a DVT.

In some cases, a deep vein clot may dislodge and travel to the heart or lungs, causing pulmonary embolism. In this case, you may feel:

Shortness of breath, especially if it gets worse after exercise.
A cough that produces bloody sputum or pink, foamy mucus.
Fever or excessive sweating.
Clammy or discoloured skin, often accompanied by feelings of anxiety.
Sudden lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting.
Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
Sharp chest pain gets worse when you cough, breathe deeply, bend over or stoop, and doesn’t go away when you rest.

How is Deep Vein Thrombosis diagnosed?

To see if you have a DVT, your doctor will examine you and ask about your symptoms.

They may use a D-dimer test, which measures the amount of a clot-breaking protein in your bloodstream known as D-dimer.

Your doctor may also send you to a vascular specialist for an ultrasound scan.

When to see your doctor

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical help IMMEDIATELY. Even if the DVT hasn’t yet dislodged, it’s essential to catch it and dissolve it early to prevent the risk of pulmonary embolism, as the latter is a life-threatening condition. To dissolve the clot, a medical practitioner will often prescribe an anticoagulant.

What are the complications of Deep Vein Thrombosis?

The primary risk of thrombosis is that it breaks loose and travels through your bloodstream. This can cause it to lodge in your lungs, blocking blood flow and causing a pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening. (If you start to experience sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid pulse, light-headedness/dizziness or coughing up blood, seek immediate medical attention.)

Another risk of thrombosis is developing Postphlebitic Syndrome (PTS). This occurs when part of the leg is damaged by a DVT, leading to long-term swelling, pain, skin discolouration and the forming of ulcers.

DVT is relatively uncommon, affecting about 1 in 1000 people (Anyone over 80 is 10 times more likely to develop a DVT). If you suspect that you have one, it’s important to see a doctor to diagnose and refer you for appropriate treatment.

How to treat Deep Vein Thrombosis

There are several simple and successful methods used to treat DVT and other thrombi. While we’ve outlined some key remedies below, they should always be done in consultation with a doctor.

Anti-Coagulants

Known as blood thinners, this deep vein thrombosis treatment reduces the risk of a clot forming and helps your body safely remove most clots that have formed. These should only be taken with the consultation of a doctor.

Compression Stockings

Medical-grade compression stockings are one of the most effective ways to minimise the risk of clots forming, and are particularly effective at treating current clots, especially alongside the use of anticoagulants. You should wear compression stockings on flights, while driving, and while at work (if you stand or sit all day).

Exercise and Therapy

This is recommended to be done in combination with compression stockings. By exercising regularly, even if it’s just a simple walk, your circulation improves, helping the blood move properly. Sometimes, a doctor will recommend physiotherapy and stretches to help improve circulation and manage any associated pain, as well as reduce the risk of further clots (particularly in people who are overweight).

To determine your own risk for DVT, ask your specialist at The Vein Institute. They can diagnose the presence of blood clots using Duplex ultrasound or venography (injecting a dye into the vein that then reveals blockages in X-rays). Your vein doctor can also recommend diet and lifestyle changes to reduce your DVT risk if your risk level is high for hereditary or other reasons.

Seek expert advice

The doctors at The Vein Institute specialise in varicose vein treatment. We offer patients a comprehensive program using non-surgical laser treatment techniques. To book a consultation and discuss our treatment program, call 04 2010 2637 or enquire via the Contact Us page.