WHAT IS DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS?
Deep Vein Thrombosis is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot, known as Thrombus forms in a vein located deep inside the body, usually in the legs – thigh or lower leg. A blood clot is a clump of blood that is in a gelatinous, solid state.
The condition can cause leg pain or swelling but can also occur with no symptoms.
This is a serious condition as the blood clots in the veins can break loose, travel through the bloodstream and lodge itself in the lungs, blocking blood flow (pulmonary embolism).
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF DVT?
In some cases, there may be no symptoms, but if they do, they may include:
- Pain, swelling and tenderness in one of the legs, usually the calf
- Heavy ache in the affected area
- Warm skin in the area of the clot
- Red skin, particularly at the back of the leg below the knee
DVT usually, although not always, affects one leg and the pain may get worse when the foot is bent upwards or towards the knee.
If left untreated, about one in 10 people with a DVT will develop a Pulmonary Embolism.
A Pulmonary Embolism is a very serious condition that causes breathlessness that may come on gradually or suddenly; chest pain that becomes worse when you breathe in and sudden collapse.
It is important that immediate medical attention is sought if you experience any of the above symptoms.