In the deep veins of arms and legs, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can develop, leading to stiffness due to formation of clots. There are many ways in which clots can be formed and can be really dangerous and troublesome. Therefore, one needs to understand the symptoms and dangers of DVT, to initiate timely treatment.
DVT can lead to many problems, which can be quite lethal and can cause problems in movement as well. Let us understand the types of veins along with the symptoms and dangers of DVT.
Symptoms of DVT
There are two types of veins in legs and in the arms – deep veins and superficial veins. Deep veins are found within the muscles and the superficial veins are just below the skin through which the blood flows into the former. Deep venous system of the body is the location where blood clots can be formed and result into condition like deep vein thrombosis or DVT.
Here are some signs and symptoms of DVT, which can be quite noticeable.
- Warmth
- Redness
- Tenderness
- Swelling which can be severe.
The veins beneath the skin can be sensitive in DVT and the concerned area may become quite rough and thick. The main characteristic symptom of DVT is the thickness of the veins that makes the area painful and unbearable to move. Recognizing DVT can be easy if you are aware of these signs and symptoms.
Generally, DVT affects only one leg but sometimes affect both legs too. It can in fact affect the pelvic region too, when the dangers of DVT may be much more. Swelling, pain and noticeable swelling of the veins are the most prominent symptoms of DVT.
Deep veins are responsible for returning the blood to the heart, which indirectly support effective blood circulation. Hence, DVT can further cause problems in blood circulation. The dangers of DVT are many, so it is necessary to recognize DVT in time so that further complications can be avoided. DVT usually, may not be lethal but if undiagnosed can even cause death.
DVT can lead to complications and the most common dangers of DVT can be lethal. It is also important to know the symptoms of DVT, which can indicate increased chances of lethal complications.
One such condition is pulmonary embolism and the signs of symptoms include rapid pulse, shortness of breath, coughing with pain in chest and coughing up blood. Dizziness or fainting may also be seen frequently. If a person suffering from DVT develops the signs of pulmonary embolism, immediate medical attention is required.
Dangers of DVT
It is important to know the dangers of DVT, which can increase the risk of many other problems. One of the most important dangers of DVT is the post phlebitic syndrome or the post thrombotic syndrome. In this, the swelling, termed as edema that occurs in legs can be really severe. This condition can cause immense damage to the veins and as blood flow gets reduced, it can lead to several complications.
Another common danger of DVT is the problem with the skin. Skin sores can be commonly noted, which can be a painful condition. Skin discoloration can also be quite severe which may lead to stiffness at a later stage.
The pain in the leg in DVT, can be sudden or gradual and if the clot is large, it increases the risk of embolism. One of the common dangers of DVT includes pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal. Pulmonary embolism generally affects 25% of the people but proper diagnosis and timely emergency treatment can improve the chances of survival.
Physicians believe that inactivity of the patients increases the risk of dangers of DVT. Hence, immobility needs to be avoided so that the risk of formation of the blood clots is reduced. There are times when bed-ridden patients have DVT and may also result in pulmonary embolism. It is the horizontal position of the leg which can be a cause of DVT as there are chances that pooling of blood may occur in the leg. This can eventually lead to blood clots and result in dangers of DVT.
Mobilization and movement can help to prevent the symptoms and dangers of DVT. It is with proper care and diagnosis that DVT can be managed well and dangers of DVT can be kept at bay.
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