Deep vein thrombosis is the condition occurring due to formation of blood clot in deeper veins of body. Most commonly, clots are formed in thighs and lower leg regions. It may also appear in other parts of body. The clot becomes more dangerous as it breaks off and travels through blood vessels to lungs. This condition is known as pulmonary embolism. As the blood vessels inside lungs are so delicate and narrow, such clots can turn the situation more serious leading, even to death.
It is also found that the clots formed in thigh regions are more prone to break off and to reach lungs than to lower legs or other parts of body. Blood clots are also formed in superficial blood vessels. Such clots are known as superficial venous thrombosis or phlebitis. These clots are less dangerous compared to deep vein clots as the chances for it to reach lungs are less. Deep vein thrombosis is also known as venous thrombosis or blood clot in legs. Deep vein thrombosis is also commonly abbreviated as DVT.
Risk factors for DVT
Many factors are considered as risk for deep vein thrombosis. They are:
- Genetic factors may play role in formation of blood clots. There are many blood clotting disorders due to impaired enzymes and factors, which can finally result in deep vein thrombosis.
- Slowing down of blood flow in deep veins, due to injuries, immobilization and surgical errors.
- Cancer patients and those who are undergoing treatment procedures are more prone to DVT.
- Conditions like varicose veins are considered as risk factors for deep vein thrombosis.
- It is risk to sit for a long period of time, while traveling or at home or work place.
- Women should be careful for six weeks after delivery, where the chance of DVT is fairly high.
- Even though blood clot can happen to individuals of any age group, chances are more after the age of sixty.
- Obesity is another risk factor of deep vein thrombosis. This is due to high cholesterol content in blood, which may lead to clots.
- Hormone therapy (for menopausal symptoms) and using birth control pills are risk to DVT.
- Almost one out of ten cases with central venous catheter possesses venous thrombosis.
More than one of the above mentioned risk factors can occur or be seen in a patient. For example, if a woman with genetic risk factors of blood clotting takes birth control pills, the chance of deep vein thrombosis is much higher. |
