Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins of the body, typically as a result of damage to the vein or when blood flow slows down or stops in the affected area. The two most common causes are injury to the lower body and surgery involving the hip or leg.
Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis
The problem often develops without noticeable symptoms, and by the time we detect them, prompt and effective intervention is crucial due to the time sensitivity and prognosis of the condition.
However, there are factors that we cannot disregard and that may indicate the development of a potential deep vein thrombosis
- The affected area – ankle, foot, calf – swells underneath the clot.
- Initially, muscle cramps resembling muscle fever occur, later intensifying with movement or touch, ultimately resulting in persistent pain in the affected area ( often in the knee crease or calf).
- Redness and warmth may be observed above the swollen area.
- Signs of pulmonary embolism may also manifest, with the most common symptoms being shortness of breath, anxiety, and fear.
If you notice these symptoms at different times, it is crucial to inform your medical practitioner, especially if you are taking medications that increase the risk of thrombosis. (This information is always included in the patient information leaflet of such medications).
Very important!
If the symptoms rapidly follow each other – we are talking about hours, not days – you should call the ambulance immediately! Do not attempt to go to the medical practitioner on your own or call a taxi, as this may risk dislodging the blood clot and the development of embolism.
Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Although genetic factors may play a role, we cannot ignore the issue of personal responsibility:
- The majority of risk factors stem from our lifestyle, closely linked to smoking, inactivity, obesity, and dietary excesses.
- All of these degrade the elasticity of blood vessels and the overall state of circulation, leading directly to atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries) and the formation of blood clots.
- To prevent deep vein thrombosis, a lot can be achieved through a health-conscious diet and regular exercise.
Even conditions independent of lifestyle can lead to the development of deep vein thrombosis. Physicians are aware of this, and therefore, as a preventive measure, they prescribe blood-thinning medications following injury to the lower limb or body part or after surgery in the affected area, such as hip or knee replacement.
What are the chances of another blood clot?
Everyone’s risk is different, influenced by genetics, gender, age, weight, lifestyle, risk factors, and medical history.
- The risk is low for the formation of another blood clot if it was acquired due to an accident, bone fracture, or surgery, or if we spent a long time sitting or standing in one place.
- It is somewhat higher if the previous blood clot was in the hip or thigh vein.
- It is significantly higher if we take anticoagulants.
- 4.And it is exceptionally high if we live with a chronic illness and continue to maintain a lifestyle that poses risks.
The treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Anticoagulant medications are given either orally or through injections to slow down blood clotting. These prevent platelets from sticking together, reducing the likelihood of thrombus formation.
- In addition to lifestyle changes, the treatment typically lasts about three months if atherosclerosis is not present.
- However, in the latter case, it may be necessary to continue treatment for years, and in severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.
- The use of anticoagulants requires close medical supervision, as it involves assessing the risk factors, including the risk of stroke and pulmonary embolism.
The treatment plan varies depending on the medication prescribed by the doctor:
- Adjusting the dosage for injections requires hospitalization, as regular monitoring is needed 2-3 times a week.
- Once the dosage is stabilized, follow-up visits to the doctor for blood tests are initially monthly and later annually.
- Patients may need to learn self-injection if their condition cannot be maintained with oral medications.
- For tablets, hospitalization may not be necessary for medication adjustment, but there are exceptions.
- For instance, adjusting the dosage of Syncumar may require daily monitoring, including blood tests taken after waking up, to check the coagulation factors.
Individual Responsibility in the Rehabilitation of Deep Vein Thrombosis
After an injury or surgery, it is crucial to get up and move as soon as possible to support blood circulation:
- Whether working or watching TV, stand up and move your limbs every 1-2 hours to reduce blood stagnation in the lower extremities.
- If planning a flight, take opportunities to stand up and walk.
- When traveling by car, regular stops every hour should be a non-negotiable practice.
- Control your weight through regular physical activity. Incorporate daily venous exercises.
Venous exercises:
Start by lying on your back with extended knees. Perform the exercises slowly and repeat 8 times.
- Move the feet up and down.
- Tighten and then relax the thigh muscles.
- Tighten and then relax the buttock muscles.
- Rotate the lower limb in and out from the hip.
- Avoid smoking and the consumption of vasoconstrictive foods and beverages.
- For a healthy individual, the daily fluid intake is two litres; for those who had deep vein thrombosis, it should be at least three litres.
- If necessary, use compression stockings or knee and ankle supports, especially if activity is not balanced (prolonged standing, walking, or sitting excessively during the day).
- Certain foods and supplements may affect the effectiveness of medications. For example, vitamin K supports the coagulation process, so the consumption of fish, liver, and green leafy vegetables should be restricted.
We must be aware that no medication or surgery can be successful in the long term without our personal involvement. The previously mentioned lifestyle changes form a foundation upon which the therapy is built.
