Complications of DVT
The most serious complication of DVT happens when a part of the clot breaks off and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs, causing a blockage called pulmonary embolism (PE). If the clot is small, and with appropriate treatment, people can recover from PE. However, there could be some damage to the lungs. If the clot is large, it can stop blood from reaching the lungs and is fatal.
In addition, one-third to one-half of people who have a DVT will have long-term complications caused by the damage the clot does to the valves in the vein called post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). People with PTS have symptoms such as swelling, pain, discoloration, and in severe cases, scaling or ulcers in the affected part of the body. In some cases, the symptoms can be so severe that a person becomes disabled.
For some people, DVT and PE can become a chronic illness; about 30% of people who have had a DVT or PE are at risk for another episode.
Risk Factors for DVT
Almost anyone can have a DVT. However, certain factors can increase the chance of having this condition.
Preventing DVT
The following tips can help prevent DVT:
Move around as soon as possible after having been confined to bed, such as after surgery, illness, or injury.
If you’re at risk for DVT, talk to your doctor about:
Graduated compression stockings (sometimes called “medical compression stockings”)
Medication (anticoagulants) to prevent DVT.
When sitting for long periods of time, such as when traveling for more than four hours:
Get up and walk around every 1 to 2 hours.
Exercise your legs while you’re sitting by:
Raising and lowering your heels while keeping your toes on the floor
Raising and lowering your toes while keeping your heels on the floor
Tightening and releasing your leg muscles
Wear loose-fitting clothes.
You can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding a sedentary lifestyle, and following your doctor’s recommendations based on your individual risk factors.
Symptoms
Know the Signs. Know your Risk. Seek Care.
Everybody should know the signs and symptoms of DVT/PE, their risk for DVT/PE, to talk to their health care provider about their risk, and to seek care immediately if they have any sign or symptom of DVT/PE.
Did you know?
DVT does not cause heart attack or stroke. There are two main types of blood clots.
How a clot affects the body depends on the type and location of the clot:
A blood clot in a deep vein of the leg, pelvis, and sometimes arm, is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This type of blood clot does not cause heart attack or stroke.
A blood clot in an artery, usually in the heart or brain, is called arterial thrombosis. This type of blood clot can cause heart attack or stroke.
Both types of clots can cause serious health problems, but the causes and steps you can take to protect yourself are different.
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