Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

When circulation becomes poor in the legs due to failing venous valves, blood begins to pool and can no longer return to the heart. Conditions such as spider veins and varicose veins can become obvious as a result of surface vein malfunctions. Some much more serious problems occur, however, when blood cells begin to form clumps in the vein, creating blood clots known as DVT. DVT is the medical abbreviation for deep vein thrombosis. A deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot that forms in the extremities. The danger lies in the possibility that the clot can travel back through the circulatory system and clog the lungs, causing pulmonary embolism and possibly death.

Causes of DVT

DVT symptoms and treatment options can vary depending on each person’s age, physical activity, or previous medical history. However, if your vein problems and deep vein thromboses reoccur, you might trace your symptoms back to these risk factors:

  • Old age
  • Sitting for long periods
  • Injury or trauma
  • Certain medications
  • Active cancer, obesity, or renal disease
  • Family history of clotting disorders
  • Smoking
  • Catheters placed in a vein due to a previous medical procedure

Additionally, DVT is a major complication that can occur from surgery, especially procedures in the lower extremities such as joint replacement. Some people ask if removing varicose veins can help lower the risk of DVT, but these two conditions cannot be treated as the same. To find out more about if or how varicose veins can cause blood clots, refer to our varicose vein page.

“After suffering pain, swelling, fatigue, and heaviness in my legs for several years and watching the redness and darkness increase, I was highly recommended by my General Practitioner to visit Dr. Jones and his great staff. When tests were done, I was shown how many problems with my circulation etc. could be helped! I have just completed treatment on both legs and couldn't be happier!”

—Donna L.

Possible DVT Symptoms

While the signs can show through the appearance of blood clot symptoms or other circulatory problems, not all deep vein thrombosis reveals symptoms specific to itself. If you feel the following symptoms, then it may be wise to seek medical assistance:

Most people don’t realize they have had DVT or don’t seek medical attention until damage has already occurred. Once you become aware of DVT, it is very important to prevent its recurrence, as further blockage of vital veins and arteries can be life-threatening. The earlier you are treated, the more likely you are to recover completely. Talk to your doctor about additional complications that may arise because of vein damage and how you can take advantage of preventative care.

DVT Medications and Modes of Treatment

At Heart of Dixie Vein & Vascular Center, we use ultrasound to examine veins deep within the legs to identify any clots that may have formed and to help assess what your DVT condition might be. If a blood clot is discovered, we recommend several treatment options to reduce the chances of a deep vein thrombosis clot from causing additional problems. These DVT remedies include the latest and safest medications, which rarely require hospitalization or frequent monitoring. We may also recommend many other simpler remedies, such as compression stockings, and offer advice on exercises you can perform to keep your circulatory system flowing strong.

We strive to be a wonderful center for DVT treatment in Southern Utah and Eastern Nevada, and we’ll be with you every step of the way as we address your concerns. You can meet with one of our health care providers at any of our available locations, contact us to start asking about any symptoms you may believe you have, or follow our blog and FAQ page for updates and information on DVT and other circulatory leg conditions.

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