Deep vein thrombosis occurs due to blood clots in the body. This could be in the lower leg or thigh. The blood clot happens when blood clumps together. When this happens, it is essential to seek medical attention. Regular visits to an El Paso deep vein thrombosis specialist can help you get relief from blood clots. Treating blood clots on time will also prevent future blood clots, lower long-term complications like swelling and pain in the leg, and stop the clot from growing.
You may get better with medication in some cases, while surgery may be required in severe cases. That is why you should always talk to your doctor to get better treatment options.
Causes of Deep Vein Thrombosis
- You can get blood clots if there is damage in the inner lining of a vein. Things that can lead to damage include certain medical conditions, severe injuries, surgery, compromised immune system, and inflammation.
- Sluggish blood flow is caused by little or no motion after a surgical procedure. It could also happen when you stay in bed for extended periods or sit down for long, especially when traveling.
- A blood clot can also occur after an accident.
- People with thick blood are at a high risk of a blood clot. This could be due to hereditary conditions.
- Taking birth control pills increases the risks of a blood clot.
When a blood clot happens, it can break loose, go through the bloodstream, and block blood flow. This condition is known as pulmonary embolism. In some cases, the condition occurs without symptoms. If you delay seeking treatment, you risk damages in parts of your body, such as the lungs and other body organs.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosis
When you visit your doctor for deep vein thrombosis, you will explain your symptoms. The doctor will do a physical examination within the affected areas.
There are other symptoms related to DVT. Such symptoms include bacterial skin infections, pneumonia, and muscle injuries.
It is crucial to visit your doctor for a careful examination and establish your condition’s root cause. A doctor can diagnose and search for veins with blood clots and advise on possible medical care. If you are at high risk, your doctor will give you advice based on the results.
Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis
The medication prescribed during the treatment of deep vein thrombosis is commonly known as anticoagulants or blood thinners. They prevent further clotting, prevent the clots from becoming loose and moving to the lungs, reduce risks of more clots, and minimize other DVT chances.
Here are the most common injectable anticoagulants:
- Fondaparinux, which is administered under the skin
- Unfractionated heparin administered in the vein
- Low molecular weight heparin is also administered under the skin
The treatment may also include oral anticoagulants which include edoxaban, warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran. Avoid taking the medication without a doctor’s advice since you risk severe bleeding and other health-related complications.
Seek Medical Advice From a Specialist
Deep vein thrombosis is a severe condition that requires urgent medical attention. If you notice any signs and symptoms highlighted above, seek immediate medical help from your specialist.