Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a very serious condition that results in the production of blood clots within your body that may block blood flow to important areas, which can easily result in life-threatening situations.  DVT occurs when a blood clot develops in one or more of the deep veins within your body, generally those in your legs.  DVT should be treated as quickly as possible because blood clots that form may break loose, travel throughout the bloodstream, and become lodged elsewhere in your body.  For instance, a blood clot could become lodged in your lungs which is very dangerous because blood flow would then be blocked or impaired, resulting in a pulmonary embolism…a life-threatening situation.

Deep vein thrombosis may occur even without any noticeable signs and symptoms, but the general signs and symptoms may include:

-Swelling in the affected leg…rarely is it in both legs.

-Pain in the affected leg that often starts in your calf; the pain feels like cramping or just an overall soreness.

If you notice development of any of the signs and symptoms as listed above you should definitely seek medical attention due to the risk that a blood clot has formed.  You do not want to wait this one out because if the blood clot begins to block blood flow…you could be in for an array of problems that otherwise could have been slowed or completely prevented.

If your DVT situation does develop into a pulmonary embolism, you should not wait another second to seek out medical treatment, as this condition is extremely serious.  The warning signs of a pulmonary embolism you should be aware of include:

-Unexplained, sudden onset of shortness of breath.

-Chest pain or discomfort that gets worse when you take a deep breath or have to cough.

-Becoming lightheaded or dizzy.

-Having a rapid pulse.

-Coughing up blood.

Numerous factors can increase your risk of developing DVT, and the more factors you can relate too…the greater your overall risk will be.  Risk factors for DVT include:

-Blood-clotting disorder

·      Some individuals may inherit a disorder that will make their blood clot more easily, which could be a problem.  Also, if combined with other risks, this could cause even more problems.

-Immobility

·      Prolonged bed rest, such as during a long hospital stay, or due to paralysis can greatly increase the risk of DVT.  When your legs remain completely still for an extended time period, your calf muscles will not be contracting to aid in the blood circulation process.  Therefore, if the blood just sits there and begins to pool due to inadequate circulation it may begin to clot.

-Trauma

·      Injury to your veins or the trauma from surgery can increase your risk for blood clots.

-Cancer

·      Some forms of cancer will increase the amount of substances in your blood that causes your blood to clot.  Some cancer treatments may also increase your risk.

-Heart Failure

·      Due to already having limited heart and lung function, symptoms of even the smallest pulmonary embolism will be more noticeable.

-Age

·      Being over the age of 60 greatly increases the risk of DVT; however it can occur at any age.

v Sedentary Lifestyle

·      Sitting for long periods and driving or flying long distances can increase your chance of experiencing deep vein thrombosis, due to inadequate blood circulation. 

-Family or Personal History

-Inflammatory Bowel Disease

-Hormone Replacement Therapy

-Smoking

When you consult with your provider related to possibly having a DVT, he or she will complete an examination and ask you a series of questions about the symptoms you have experienced.  During your physical examination, your provider will check for any areas of swelling, tenderness or discoloration on your skin.  If a blood clot is indeed suspected after your thorough examination, further testing may be completed which could include:

-Ultrasound

·      An ultrasound device will be placed over the part of your body where the clot is suspected and will send sound waves into the area.  As the sound waves travel back to the computer, they will be transformed into a moving image that may resemble a clot it one is present.

·      A series of ultrasounds can be completed to monitor any growth of the blood clot and/or to make sure no new ones have developed.

-Blood Test

·      Almost all individuals who have severe DVT will have an elevated D-dimer level on their laboratory results.  This substance dissolves clots.

-Venography

·      During this exam a dye will be injected into a large vein in your foot or ankle.  An x-ray will then create an image of those veins to examine for any blood clots.

·      This is more invasive and will be done only if an ultrasound did not provide enough information to confirm formation of a blood clot.

-CT or MRI

·      Both of these scans will provide your provider with visual images of your veins and will show any blood clots.

Upon your diagnosis of DVT, a treatment plan will be formulated related to your specific condition and to the extent to which the blood clot has caused issues throughout your body.  Overall, DVT treatment is aimed at preventing the clot from growing any larger, as well as preventing it from breaking loose, which could result in a pulmonary embolism.  In addition, reducing your chances of developing DVT in the future will also be a goal of your treatment.

Various treatments are available for DVT and your provider may recommend any of the following:

-Blood Thinners

·      Can be administered in various ways (intravenously, by an injection, by mouth).

·      Decrease the ability of your blood to clot.

·      DO NOT break up existing clots.

·      DO prevent clots from getting larger & reduces the risk of developing more clots.

·      May need to take these for 3 months or longer.

·      Take exactly as prescribed due to risk of serious side effects.

·      Be prepared for periodic blood tests.

-Clot-busters

·      Prescribed if your DVT is more serious or if you developed pulmonary embolism.

·      Used if other medications did not work effectively.

·      Generally only used in life-threatening situations, as they may cause serious bleeding.

-Filters

·      If you are unable to take medications to thin your blood, insertion of a filter may be recommended.

·      A filter will be surgically placed into a large vein – the vena cava – in your abdomen.

·      This filter will prevent any clots that break loose from becoming lodged in your lungs by catching them before they get there.

-Compression Stockings

·      Will help prevent the swelling that is accompanied by DVT.

·      Worn like socks, except up to your knees.

·      Increased pressure will help reduce the chances that your blood will pool and clot.

·      Should be worn during the day and removed at night.

Total Home Health has created a program especially for you to care for your DVT.  Our highly-skilled professionals will be present in the comforts of your own home to provide you with the most optimal care possible.  We will work closely with your provider and be attuned to the smallest changes that could indicate worsening of your condition or development of new blood clots.  Your health and safety will always be our number one priorities.  The professional relationship we create with you will be unlike any other, and you’ll see that you are in good hands day after day.  We will always be searching for new ways to make the most positive changes in your life and with your condition.  So what are you waiting for?  Enroll with Total Home Health today for a new beginning and continue your journey with us!