Deep vein thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis is a threat many people may not know they face until it’s too late. At Atrium Health Floyd and Harbin Clinic, we work with you to support your health so you can minimize your risk for deep vein thrombosis and get treatment should it occur.

What is deep vein thrombosis?

A thrombosis, or blood clot, is a collection of platelets called thrombocytes that are created in response to vein damage. They collect near the damage to create a barrier that prevents blood from escaping and then dissolving over time. Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, refers to a blood clot in deep veins that doesn’t dissolve.

What causes deep vein thrombosis?

When a DVT doesn't dissolve, it may come loose and reenter the bloodstream. It can then end up creating a blockage in the lungs or brain, leading to a pulmonary embolism or stroke.

What are the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis?

Only about half of people who have DVT have signs or symptoms. These include:

• Localized warmth and tenderness
• Pain or swelling in the affected body part
• Skin redness

If DVT progresses into a pulmonary embolism, it can prevent the lungs from absorbing oxygen. These signs include:

• Unexplained shortness of breath
• Pain with deep breathing
• Coughing up blood
• Rapid breathing
• Faster heart rate

Diagnosing deep vein thrombosis

Diagnosing DVT may require a physical exam, testing and a review of your medical history. For some, a diagnosis may not be made until after an emergency, such as a stroke or pulmonary embolism. The most common tests for DVT are ultrasound, a D-dimer test or venography.

Risk factors for deep vein thrombosis

Though it’s impossible to predict DVT, factors that make it more likely may include:

• A central venous catheter
• A previous history of DVT
• Being older than 60
• Broken bones or other internal traumas
• Conditions that thicken your blood or make it clot more readily
• Hormone therapy or birth control
• Obesity
• Pregnancy and the first six weeks after giving birth
• Recent or ongoing treatment for cancer
• Sitting for long periods of time
• Slow blood flow due to lack of movement
• Smoking

The chances of DVT increase with each of the risk factors an individual exhibits.

How is deep vein thrombosis treated?

Anticoagulants, or blood thinners, make it harder for blood to clot and prevent existing clots from growing larger. They’re the most common treatment for DVT. Blood thinners can be taken as a pill, an injection under the skin or through a needle or tube inserted into a vein (IV therapy). The most common side effect of blood thinners is bleeding, which can be life threatening.