What are the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis?
People with deep vein thrombosis may experience:
- Swelling in one leg
- Pain or tenderness in the leg, often felt as a cramp
- Red or discolored skin on the leg
- Feeling warm to the touch in the affected area
What causes deep vein thrombosis?
Deep vein thrombosis can be caused by several factors, including:
- Long periods of inactivity, such as sitting on a long flight or car journey
- Injuries to the veins from surgery or trauma
- Certain medical conditions that increase clotting of the blood
- Being overweight, which can put pressure on veins
- Hormonal changes, such as those from pregnancy or birth control pills
How common is deep vein thrombosis?
Deep vein thrombosis can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in adults, especially those over the age of 60. Each year, around 1 in 1,000 people in the UK may develop DVT.
Who is more likely to get deep vein thrombosis?
Some factors can increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis, including:
- Age over 60
- Having a family history of blood clots
- Being overweight or obese
- Using hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills
- Having certain medical conditions, like heart disease or cancer
How can I treat deep vein thrombosis?
Treatment for deep vein thrombosis usually involves:
- Medications called blood thinners to help prevent further clots (like apixaban)
- Compression stockings to reduce swelling
- In some cases, procedures to remove the clot
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How to prevent deep vein thrombosis?
There are steps you can take to help prevent deep vein thrombosis, including:
- Staying active and moving around regularly, especially during long trips
- Wearing compression stockings, if advised by your doctor
- Keeping a healthy weight
- Avoiding smoking, as it can increase clot risk
How quickly can I recover from deep vein thrombosis?
Recovery time from deep vein thrombosis varies. Many people improve within weeks with treatment, but full recovery may take longer, depending on the individual situation.
What’s the outlook for deep vein thrombosis?
With proper treatment, most people recover well from deep vein thrombosis. However, it is important to manage the condition to prevent complications like pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening.
Final thoughts
Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition that requires attention and treatment. If you have concerns about DVT or risk factors, please speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
