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Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, usually in the legs, and can lead to severe health problems if untreated, such as pulmonary embolism when clots travel to the lungs. At Manipal Hospitals in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, our Radiology Department offers specialised care for DVT using advanced imaging like ultrasound and CT scans for accurate diagnosis. We provide a comprehensive range of treatment options, including blood thinners to prevent further clotting, clot-dissolving medications delivered directly to the clot, minimally invasive clot removal procedures, and IVC filters to prevent clots from reaching the lungs. Our dedicated team of skilled radiologists and interventional radiologists is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centred care to ensure the best possible outcomes for your health and well-being. Additionally, we emphasise the importance of lifestyle changes and preventive measures, such as regular exercise, weight management, and staying hydrated, to reduce the risk of DVT recurrence and promote overall vascular health.
A blood clot causes DVT. The clot obstructs a vein, which stops your body's blood from flowing normally. The following conditions may increase the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis:
An inherited (genetic) illness that makes blood clots more likely to occur
Having cancer and undergoing chemotherapy
Having a family or personal history of deep vein thrombosis
Having restricted blood flow in a deep vein as a result of surgery, a wound, or being immobile
Following surgery or a major injury, as well as increased periods spent sitting in a car, truck, bus, train, or aeroplane
Having recently given birth or being pregnant
Being over 40 (but DVT can strike anyone at any age)
Being obese or overweight.
Having an autoimmune condition, such as inflammatory bowel disease, vasculitis, or lupus
Consuming tobacco
Using hormone therapy or birth control tablets
Possessing a pacemaker or central venous catheter
DVT occurs in the veins of your arms or legs. Some patients with DVT experience no symptoms at all, yet occasionally there are extremely minor symptoms. Acute DVT symptoms include the following:
Swelling in your arm or leg
Tenderness or pain in your arm or leg (which occurs only when walking or standing)
Your arm or leg may feel warmer than usual in the swollen or painful area
Redness and discolouration of your skin
Your skin's surface veins can be larger than usual
Pain in the belly or flanks (occurs when deep vein thrombosis in the abdomen is affected)
Severe headaches, which typically start suddenly, and/or seizures, which occur when blood clots damage the brain's veins
Your healthcare provider may perform several of the following tests to diagnose DVT:
Duplex ultrasonography of the veins: The most popular test for DVT diagnosis is this one since it is readily accessible and non-invasive. This test shows blood clots and blood flow in your veins using ultrasonic waves. As they scan your arm or leg, a vascular ultrasound technologist applies pressure. Your vein may contract under pressure, which indicates the presence of a blood clot. If the duplex ultrasound results are unclear, your physician may choose to perform an additional imaging test.
Venography: To determine whether any blood clots are totally or partially obstructing blood flow inside your veins, your doctor will do an invasive test in which they numb the skin on your neck or groyne and insert a special dye (contrast material) into your veins using a catheter.
MRV (Magnetically Resonant Venography). An MRV provides images of your body's internal organs and structures. The veins in particular bodily parts can be seen in images provided by MRV. A duplex ultrasound or CT scan may not always provide as much information as an MRI or MRV.
Computed Scan: An X-ray that displays the internal architecture of your body is called a computed tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan may be used by your physician to detect pulmonary emboli (blood clots in the lung) and DVT in the abdomen, pelvis, or brain.
Treatment options for DVT may include blood thinners known as anticoagulants, wearing compression stockings, elevating the affected leg at different times during the day, and medication. In rare instances, invasive therapies (catheter-based procedures) might be necessary if the DVT is severe.
The treatment approach for DVT includes the following:
Anticoagulants: These are the blood thinners that prevent blood clots from forming and shrinking, but can cause bleeding. Treatment time varies and can be influenced by individual circumstances.
Compression stockings: These can improve leg swelling caused by damaged vein valves or blocked blood flow. They can be used after surgery to prevent a DVT.
Inferior vena cava filter: If blood thinners are not available or if blood clots occur, a surgeon may implant inferior vena cava (IVC) filters. The filter is placed into a large vein in the neck or groyne, preventing large blood clots from causing pulmonary embolism.
Since a DVT can take months or even years to disintegrate, you will need to continue taking blood thinners as directed and wearing compression stockings until your doctor instructs you to stop. To ensure that you are taking blood thinners at the recommended dosage, you might require blood testing. Subsequent ultrasounds may be recommended by your provider to see whether your blood clot is remaining in the same location, getting better, or growing larger.
DVT complications may include:
Pulmonary Embolism (PE): DVT can lead to a potentially fatal condition called Pulmonary Embolism. It happens when a blood clot (thrombus) in the leg or another part of the body breaks away and lodges itself in a lung blood artery. Seek prompt medical attention if you experience PE symptoms. They include sharp breathlessness, chest discomfort during inhalation or coughing, fast breathing, fast heartbeat, dizziness, and blood in the cough.
Post-phlebitic syndrome: Blood flow is decreased in the afflicted areas due to damage to the veins caused by the blood clot. Leg sores, skin colour changes, and leg discomfort are among the symptoms.
Complications of DVT treatment: In order to treat DVT, blood thinners are routinely employed. One concerning adverse effect of blood thinners is bleeding (haemorrhage). It is crucial to undergo routine blood testing when using medications that thin the blood. Potential symptoms of complications include feeling lightheaded or dizzy and coughing up blood.
Modifying one's lifestyle may help avoid deep vein thrombosis:
Stretch your lower limbs: Try to get up as soon as you can if you have undergone surgery or have been bedridden. Avoid crossing your legs when seated.
Take regular rests to extend your legs when travelling. On an aircraft, take occasional breaks to stand or stroll. If you're driving, get out of your car around every hour and take a stroll. Exercise your lower legs if you are unable to walk. Keeping your toes on the ground, raise and drop your heels. Then, with your heels still on the ground, lift your toes.
Avoid smoking as DVT risk is increased by smoking.
Maintain an ideal weight: Frequent physical activity reduces the risk of blood clots. If you want to reduce weight, maintain your weight loss, or meet certain fitness goals, you may need to exercise more.
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