Our veins play a vital role in sustaining life. Not only do they help return blood to our hearts, they also prevent backward flow to promote circulation. However, with their thin walls, our veins are susceptible to damage. One condition that stands out as a significant threat is deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Here’s a look at DVT and how you can prevent it.
What is Deep Vein Thrombosis
DVT is a medical condition characterised by the formation of blood clots within the body’s deep veins, typically in the legs. They may impede blood flow and pose serious health risks that are potentially life threatening.
How and Why Blood Clots Form
When our body responds to injury, it goes through a process known as coagulation, which is how blood clots form. Platelets adhere to the site of the injury and release chemicals that attract even more platelets. At the same time, clotting factors (proteins) in the blood are activated, leading to the formation of a mesh-like structure called fibrin, which reinforces that platelet plug and creates a stable blood clot.
Under normal circumstances, such blood clotting serves as a protective mechanism that helps to prevent excessive bleeding when blood vessels are damaged. However, in the context of DVT, this can become problematic. They usually form due to a few factors:
- Prolonged periods of immobility or reduced blood flow in the veins.
- Damage to the inner lining of blood vessels, known as the endothelium, due to injury or inflammation.
- Hypercoagulability caused by genetic factors, medications, or medical conditions.
- Venous valve dysfunction
Risk Factors
Several risk factors increase the risk of DVT developing in some individuals. They include:
- Prolonged periods of sitting
- Surgery and/or trauma to blood vessels
- Advanced age
- A family history of clotting disorders
- Genetic conditions such as Factor V Leidan mutation or deficiencies in antithrombin, protein C or protein S
- Cancer
- Hormonal changes
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Chronic conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, and inflammatory disorders
- Varicose veins
- Dehydration
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Symptoms of DVT
- Swelling in the legs
- Pain or tenderness that feel like soreness or cramping
- Discoloured skin
- Skin feeling warmer than the surrounding areas
- Feeling of heaviness or fullness in the leg
It’s important to note that DVT can occur without noticeable symptoms, especially in its early stages. If you experience any combination of the symptoms, especially if you are at increased risk of developing DVT, it’s crucial to seek prompt medical attention from a vascular surgeon.
Complications
DVT, if left unaddressed, can lead to several complications, some of which can be serious and life threatening. They include:
- Pulmonary Embolism: This occurs when a blood clot from the veins travels to the lungs, obstructing blood flow. This can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and in severe cases, death.
- Post-Thrombotic Syndrome: A long-term complication that may occur in some following a DVT episode. It involves chronic pain, swelling, and sometimes skin changes in the affected leg.
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency: DVT can damage vein valves and lead to chronic venous insufficiency. This can cause poor blood circulation in the affected leg, resulting in swelling, pain, and skin changes.
Learn More: Problem Deep Dive: Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Do visit a vein clinic to consult a vascular surgeon if you suspect that you have DVT.
How Can You Prevent DVT?
Preventing DVT involves making a few lifestyle changes. Some strategies to adopt include:
• Stay Active
Regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling, promotes healthy blood circulation. If you have a sedentary job or lifestyle, take breaks to stand up, stretch, and move around regularly.
• Maintain A Healthy Weight
Obesity increases one’s likelihood of developing DVT because excess weight puts excessive pressure on the veins and impedes blood flow to the heart. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and an active lifestyle can reduce this risk.
• Stay Hydrated
Dehydration contributes to the development of thicker blood and raises the risk of clotting. Drinking sufficient water prevents this.
• Manage Chronic Conditions
If you have conditions that increase your likelihood of developing DVT, it’s important to work with your doctor to manage these issues effectively and reduce your risk.
DVT is a potentially severe condition that can be life-threatening if left untreated. Fortunately, there are multifaceted approaches to prevent and treat the condition should it occur in any individual.
Cheng SC Veins and Endovascular Clinic is a vein clinic specialising in vascular surgery. Journey to greater vascular health today by scheduling an appointment with us.
