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Deep Vein Thrombosis Treatment Hospital in Dhakuria

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis Treatment in Dhakuria

Deep vein thrombosis, abbreviated as DVT, occurs when blood clots are formed in veins deep within the body, usually the leg, although it can also occur in the arms, mesenteric, and cerebral veins. Causes of DVT are several, some of which include age, family history, or trauma. DVTs themselves are usually not life-threatening. However, it becomes one if it breaks and travels through the bloodstream. The clots then get stuck in the lungs, obstructing blood flow (pulmonary embolism). A venous embolism occurs when DVT and pulmonary embolism take place at the same time. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are necessary to prevent any serious complications.

Possible veins that are prone to DVTs include distal veins (present in the calf region), popliteal veins (located behind the knee), femoral veins (present in the thigh region), common femoral veins (near the pelvis), and iliac veins (pelvic area). At Manipal Hospitals in Dhakuria, West Bengal, the Department of Radiology leverages state-of-the-art techniques to diagnose and locate DVT and employ appropriate treatment plans.

FAQ's

Common symptoms that are associated with deep vein thrombosis (DVTs) include:

  • Unexpected leg or arm swelling

  • Pain or soreness that radiates from the calf region

  • Change in skin colour, such as red, blue, or purple

  • Enlarged veins

  • Warmth or tenderness around the affected region

In some cases, DVTs may arise without any particular symptoms. Additionally, pulmonary embolism could be the first indication for DVTs, whose symptoms may include shortness of breath, the onset of chest pain, persistent coughing or the presence of blood while coughing, and irregular breathing.

Risk factors for deep vein thrombosis are categorised into three categories: transient, persistent, and unprovoked DVT.

  • Transient DVTs occur in temporary conditions, such as those who have undergone surgery with general anaesthesia or are hospitalised, have undergone caesarean sections, and are taking hormone replacement therapies. Expecting women, or the period after childbirth, and those with lower body injuries requiring immobilisation for more than 72 hours are prone to transient DVT.

  • Persistent DVTs arise due to existing or ongoing conditions, such as cancer or chronic conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or systemic lupus erythematosus.

  • Sometimes, DVT can occur even without any clear risk factors, which is known as unprovoked DVT.

General risk factors other than those mentioned above usually include those who are over the age of 60, obesity, prolonged dehydration, family history of blood clots, genetic factors such as mutations of clotting factors like factor V Leiden mutation, smoking, high levels of triglycerides, and other conditions.

During your consultation, our specialist will discuss symptoms, medical and family history, and past consultations, if any. Physical examinations are conducted, which may include checking for swelling or any colour changes in the skin. Based on your initial assessments, specialists may recommend that you undergo lab and imaging tests, which include a D-dimer test, duplex ultrasound, venography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. The results are then discussed concerning the findings obtained. In case an intervention is deemed necessary to address your condition, our specialist will schedule a date based on your availability and provide instructions regarding the preparation of the procedure, along with the type of anaesthesia, events of the procedure, possible complications, and post-care instructions.

The treatment for deep vein thrombosis (DVTs) generally aims to stop clots from travelling to the lungs, minimise any long-term complications with DVT or morbidity, and prevent any post-thrombotic syndromes. Treatments employed by specialists in addressing DVTs include:

  • Blood Thinners: Also known as anticoagulants, these drugs are taken orally, administered via IV, or injected into the skin. Some blood thinners are not feasible for certain individuals, especially pregnant women.

  • Clot Busters: Thrombolytics are usually prescribed when the condition is serious or first-line treatments do not work. The drugs are usually given or administered through a catheter inserted directly into the clot.

  • Filters: These are usually performed for individuals who cannot take medications. The procedure involves placing a filter into the vena cava in the abdomen. The filter helps prevent any obstruction of clots due to breakage.

  • Compression stockings: These are usually recommended to prevent any pooling of blood in the legs. Compression stockings can help reduce swelling in the legs.

Possible complications that can occur from untreated and treated deep vein thrombosis (DVTs) include:

  • Pulmonary emboli

  • Post-thrombotic syndromes, such as pain or skin colour changes

  • Heavy bleeding due to anticoagulants

Some precautions you can take to reduce the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVTs) include:

  • Adhering to medication schedules and medicines prescribed by our specialists

  • Attending regular follow-up appointments to evaluate your progress

  • Maintaining a balanced diet and an active lifestyle

  • Refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco

  • Avoiding prolonged sitting or standing for long periods of time, especially when you travel for longer periods

Wearing compression stockings to minimise any risk of clotting

Yes, people who have had DVT are at a higher risk of having another clot. Ongoing management, including lifestyle changes and medication, can help reduce the risk of recurrence.