Deep Vein Thrombosis- Signs, Causes And Prevention!

Deep vein thrombosis is a serious medical condition caused by the internal “scabbing” of the blood, which amounts to a blood clot in a leg vein. This disease can be deadly if the clot moves from its original location and enters a vital area. The clot may prevent the flow of blood to vital organs of the body. If the clot travels to the lungs it is known as Pulmonary Embolism, which brings damage to lungs and can even cause death. This issue can occur in any part of the body but most commonly occurs in the lower part of legs. If it appears in the head is a commonly referred to as a stroke or can be a sagittal vein thrombosis.

What are signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis?
Some people experience obvious signs and symptoms of DVT. The symptoms may vary greatly from person to person and the severity of the condition. Some of the common signs and symptoms are:

• Swelling in one or both of the legs
• Tenderness in calf
• Pain and redness in the legs
• Skin discoloration in the affected area
• Discomfort in moving legs and feet

What are the major causes of DVT?

• Serious traumatic injuries can bring damage to the inner linings of veins, causing a blood clot to form in the legs.
• Lack of motion and physical activity decreases blood flow in body, which puts individuals at greater risk of suffering a DVT.
• Sometimes, blood clots form inside the body without any known reason.
• Prolonged illness and long hours of sitting without stretching or exercise may also result in the formation of blood clots.

Apart from these reasons, hormonal contraceptive pills like yasmin may also cause deep vein thrombosis.

Who is at risk of developing this serious condition?

• Those who had undergone recent surgery
• Obesity may be linked to deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
• Individuals suffering from blood clotting disorders like thrombopilia and polycythaemia.
• Health conditions like pneumonia, heart attack and stroke also may cause the formation of blood clots.

What to do to prevent DVT?
Mentioned below are some of the tips that people should follow to lower risk of being suffering from deep vein thrombosis.

• Enjoy an active lifestyle to avoid DVTs. Walk regularly to avoid lack of motion in the legs. Swimming and cycling are also effective activities that will keep the blood flowing and help avoid a DVT.
• Eat a healthy diet to maintain ideal weight. Shed extra pounds with a smart weight loss plan.
• Quit smoking to keep distance from blood clots and numerous other serious health conditions.
• Do not take any medicine or contraceptive pill without consulting a doctor and being informed of the risks and alternatives.