Deep Vein Thrombosis & Venous Disease

Are You at Risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Almost one million Americans may develop deep vein thrombosis (DVT) each year.  These blood clots typically develop in the legs but will sometimes break loose and travel through the heart to the lungs, becoming a pulmonary embolism (PE). If the traveling clot is large enough, it can be fatal.  Patients at risk for developing DVT include those who:

• Are over age 60
• Smoke
• Recently had major surgery
• Prior history of DVT
• History of blood clotting disorder
• Take oral contraceptives or hormone therapy
• Are undergoing prolonged periods of immobility

What is Deep Vein Thrombosis?

DVT can develop in people whose leg veins aren’t working properly (venous reflux), causing blood to pool in the veins due to the higher pressure. The high pressure leads to inflammation of the vein.  That, combined with the more sluggish flow of blood and a damaged vein surface, creates the ideal conditions for a blood clot to form.   The clots associated with vein disease may be superficial or deep.  DVTs are the most dangerous.

If you have a painful “pulling” sensation in the calf, localized pain, warmth, redness, or swelling that can travel up the knee, you may have DVT.