Deep vein thrombosis or DVT is a condition formed due to blood clots in deep veins, especially in the legs. It is possible for the formation of the clots to occur in superficial veins and deep veins. Blood clots in superficial veins with inflammation do not cause any serious problems. However, clots in deep vein require immediate medical attention.
The formation of the clots in the deep veins is dangerous because they possess the capability to break loose from the vein and travel to the lungs through the bloodstream causing pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism is life-threatening. Apart from this, the presence of deep vein thrombosis can lead to symptoms that are long-lasting.
Is Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT Pain Constant?
The deep vein thrombosis or DVT pain may be constant especially whenever you walk. The occurrence of the pain is due to the symptoms experienced by the person due to deep vein thrombosis or DVT. The symptoms include swelling of the leg. In addition, the affected region looks red; the skin becomes tender and warm. The calf of the thigh region exerts pain when a person stands or moves. The pain gets worse and lasts longer on becomes constant if left untreated.
However, an individual may not experience the pain if the clots formed in the vein are small in size. But, when these clots grow in size, they break free from the vein and travel towards the lung causing pulmonary embolism.
What is the Cause of the Formation of Clots?
Blood clots form due to inactive or sedentary lifestyle. The best example is when a person is suffering from paralysis. As there is no movement in the body, the flow of the blood tends to form clots and leads to deep vein thrombosis or DVT condition. Other examples include the following:
- Resting in hospital after a major surgery
- Long trips including that of flights and road
- Injury or surgery that damaged blood vessels
- Symptoms of cancer and heart attack
- Family history of deep vein thrombosis.
Diagnosing Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT
It is essential to diagnose the condition of deep vein thrombosis or DVT to provide immediate treatment and prevent the occurrence of pulmonary embolism. Depending on the symptoms and the data collected by the doctor, one will have to undergo a series of tests to ensure the presence of clots or deep vein thrombosis. The initial test is ultrasound, which is helpful in measuring the flow of the blood through the veins. It also helps in finding the clots that are causing any blockage of the blood flow.
Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT
After detecting the presence of blood clots, the physician begins the treatment right away. Attending to the situation immediately helps in reducing the growth of the clot size and prevent it from breaking free from the vein.
The treatment procedure for deep vein thrombosis or DVT involves consuming anticoagulants, which are usually blood thinners. Doctors prescribe the medication for a minimum of three months. It can extend up till six months based on the results of improvement shown by the patient. Heparin is the first in line for the treating blood clots and prevents the existing ones from growing in size.
Apart from medicines, the doctor will also recommend participating in physical activities such as running, walking, and swimming for deep vein thrombosis or DVT. Wearing compression stockings is also helpful in reducing the pain and the symptoms experienced due to deep vein thrombosis.
Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT
A person can avoid deep vein thrombosis or DVT after surgery by using anticoagulant medicine. Use of compression stockings is also helpful. If possible, getting out of the bed after recovery and participating in prescribed physical activities will help in reduction of the pain caused due to the long idling situation after the surgery.
Also Read:
- DVT or Deep Vein Thrombosis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments
- Warning Signs of Deep Vein Thrombosis: How do I know if I have DVT?
- Symptoms and Dangers of DVT
- Can DVT Occur in the Arm?
- What is DVT During Pregnancy?
- How Painful is a DVT in Leg?
- What are the Most Severe Complication of Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT?