Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. This can be dangerous because the blood clot can travel to your lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism, which is life-threatening. It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you have DVT.
Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Recognizing the symptoms of DVT is vital for prompt diagnosis and treatment. DVT symptoms typically manifest in one leg, though rarely they can affect both. Key symptoms to watch out for include:
- Throbbing pain in one leg: This pain is often located in the calf or thigh and is more noticeable when walking or standing up. It’s uncommon to experience pain in both legs simultaneously.
- Swelling in one leg: Similar to pain, swelling usually affects just one leg and is a significant indicator of DVT.
- Warm skin: The area around the pain may feel warmer to the touch compared to the surrounding skin.
- Skin discoloration: Red or darkened skin can appear around the painful area. Note that this color change might be less visible on darker skin tones.
- Swollen veins: Veins that become hard or sore to the touch can also be a symptom of DVT.
It’s important to remember that DVT can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the arm or abdomen. If you experience these symptoms in areas other than your leg, it’s still important to consider DVT as a possibility.
Credit: DR P. MARAZZI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/440619/view
When to Seek Urgent Medical Advice for DVT
It’s essential to act quickly if you think you might have DVT. Seek urgent medical advice in the following situations:
- If you suspect you have DVT: Don’t delay seeking help if you recognize the symptoms.
You can contact your doctor for an urgent appointment or get guidance from NHS 111 by calling 111 or using the 111 online service.
Emergency Situations: When to Call 999 or Go to A&E for DVT
DVT can lead to serious complications, requiring immediate emergency care. Call 999 or go to the nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) department if you experience DVT symptoms, particularly pain and swelling, along with:
- Breathlessness
- Chest pain
These symptoms could indicate that the blood clot has traveled to your lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. A pulmonary embolism is a critical condition that can be life-threatening and requires immediate treatment. Do not drive yourself to A&E; instead, ask someone to drive you or call 999 for an ambulance. Bring any medications you are currently taking with you to the hospital.
Who is at Higher Risk of DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)?
Certain factors and conditions increase the likelihood of developing DVT. You are more susceptible to DVT if you:
- Are over 60 years old
- Are overweight or obese
- Smoke
- Have a history of DVT
- Use combined oral contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Have cancer or heart failure
- Have varicose veins
Specific situations also elevate your risk of DVT:
- Hospitalization or recent hospital discharge: Especially if your mobility was limited during your hospital stay, such as after surgery.
- Prolonged bed rest: Being confined to bed for extended periods increases DVT risk.
- Long journeys: Traveling for more than 3 hours by plane, car, or train can increase risk due to prolonged immobility.
- Pregnancy or recent childbirth: Pregnancy and the postpartum period (up to 6 weeks after birth) are associated with a higher risk of DVT.
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can contribute to DVT development.
In some cases, DVT can occur without any identifiable risk factors.
How is DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) Diagnosed?
If a healthcare professional suspects DVT, prompt diagnosis is crucial. You should be referred to a hospital within 24 hours for diagnostic testing, typically:
- Ultrasound scan: This non-invasive scan assesses blood flow through the veins to detect clots.
- Venogram (X-ray of the vein): In some cases, a venogram might be performed. This involves injecting a dye to visualize the veins and pinpoint the location of any blood clot.
Treatment Options for DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
Treatment for DVT aims to prevent the clot from growing, stop it from traveling to the lungs, and reduce the risk of future clots. Initial treatment may include:
- Heparin injection: A blood-thinning medication called heparin might be administered while awaiting ultrasound scan results.
- Blood-thinning medications: These are the primary treatment for DVT and include medications like warfarin or rivaroxaban. You will likely need to take these medications for at least 3 months.
- Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove large blood clots or prevent clots from traveling to the lungs.
For women who develop DVT during pregnancy, blood-thinning injections are usually required throughout the remainder of the pregnancy and for up to 6 weeks after childbirth.
Recovery and Aftercare from DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
Recovery from DVT involves lifestyle adjustments and adherence to medical advice. After hospital discharge, it is recommended to:
- Walk regularly: Gentle exercise, like walking, promotes healthy blood circulation.
- Elevate the affected leg: When sitting, keep your affected leg raised to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Delay long journeys: Avoid flying or long journeys for at least 2 weeks after starting blood-thinning medication to minimize the risk of complications.
Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Lifestyle and Travel Tips
Adopting preventive measures can significantly reduce your risk of DVT.
Do:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a risk factor for DVT.
- Stay active: Regular physical activity, such as daily walks, is beneficial.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated helps prevent dehydration, which can increase DVT risk.
Don’t:
- Sit still for extended periods: Take breaks to stand up and move around at least every hour.
- Cross your legs while sitting: This can restrict blood flow.
- Smoke: Smoking increases the risk of blood clots.
- Consume excessive alcohol: Alcohol can contribute to dehydration.
Travel Advice for Long Journeys
When undertaking journeys of 3 hours or more by plane, train, or car, take these precautions:
- Wear loose clothing: Avoid tight garments that can restrict circulation.
- Drink plenty of water: Stay well-hydrated throughout your journey.
- Avoid alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
- Walk around when possible: During breaks or when safe to do so, get up and walk around to promote blood flow.
DVT Prevention in Hospital
If you are admitted to the hospital, your healthcare team should assess your DVT risk. If you are considered at higher risk, preventative measures may be implemented, such as:
- Medication: Preventative blood-thinning medication may be prescribed.
- Compression stockings: Knee-high elastic stockings can aid blood circulation in the legs.
You can also take proactive steps to prevent DVT while hospitalized:
- Stay active: If possible, walk around within your room or the hospital ward.
- Ankle and toe exercises: If bedridden, perform ankle circles and toe movements regularly as instructed by your healthcare team to stimulate blood flow.
Page last reviewed: 22 March 2023
Next review due: 22 March 2026
