Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Vascular Solutions

Vein Specialists located in Charlotte, NC

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where a blood clot has developed in the deep veins in the leg. Deep vein thrombosis typically causes leg pain and swelling, but in some people, the condition can develop silently. If you suspect you have deep vein thrombosis, call Peter Ford, MD, FACS, RPVI, and the team at Vascular Solutions in Charlotte, North Carolina. They perform diagnostic testing and provide the treatment you’ll need to eliminate the blood clot and prevent life-threatening complications. If you have questions about your symptoms, call or request an appointment online today.

704-544-7535

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Q & A

What causes deep vein thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) develops in a deep vein. The condition can affect people of any age and affects both males and females. The factors that increase the risk of developing a blood clot are related to one of the following:

Slow blood flow:

Heart failure
Overweight/obese
Prolonged inactivity (long car ride, extended bed rest)

Trauma/injury to the surrounding tissues:

Blunt trauma
Surgical procedures

Thick blood:

Blood clotting disorders
Family history of clots
Hormonal medications
Inflammatory bowel disease

What symptoms develop due to deep vein thrombosis?

The initial symptoms of deep vein thrombosis vary dramatically from person to person. Occasionally someone with deep vein thrombosis may not even know they have the condition. More commonly, the initial symptoms of deep vein thrombosis include leg pain and leg swelling that vary in severity from mild-to-moderate all the way through to severe. Sometimes a patient with deep vein thrombosis will actually present with symptoms of shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, or fast heart-beat (i.e., symptoms of a pulmonary embolism). Pulmonary embolism is a complication of deep vein thrombosis that occurs when blood clots fragment and travel to the lungs.

Further complicating the picture is the fact that some people may not seek medical attention initially, but may present weeks (or months) later with leg swelling or leg symptoms. In this situation, the underlying problem is often secondary vein-valve damage caused by the initial blood clot.

How is deep vein thrombosis diagnosed and treated?

Your Vascular Solutions provider reviews your medical history and symptoms, examines your leg, and performs an ultrasound to detect a blood clot and evaluate blood flow through the area.

For most patients with deep vein thrombosis, treatment begins with blood-thinning medication to prevent additional blood clots from forming.

If you develop leg pain or swelling, don’t wait to have your leg evaluated at Vascular Solutions. To schedule an appointment, call the office or request one online today.