Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition in which a blood clot develops in a vein. It can occur anywhere in the body but is most common in the thigh or calf. These are dangerous blood clots if left untreated. They can cause a pulmonary embolism, a condition in which a portion of the blood clot breaks off and travels through the body to an artery in the lung.
Treatment of a DVT is possible and can be very effective in the long term. However, the first step is to know a blood clot is present.
Symptoms to Look Out For
A self-evaluation can provide some insight into the presence of DVT. A formal diagnosis is only possible after seeing a doctor. It’s not possible to see the clot – they do not always cause a bulging of the skin. That’s why it’s important to look for changes in the area and pain.
Some of the most common symptoms of DVT include:
- Throbbing pain in one leg
- Swelling in one leg
- Skin that’s warm to the touch and painful
- Redness in the area of pain
- Swelling of the vein and pain when touching it
A pulmonary embolism can cause sudden, life-threatening symptoms, including shortness of breath, chest pain, lightheadedness, coughing up blood, and a rapid pulse. This condition requires immediate medical attention.
Even if you’re unsure that you have DVT, seeking out medical care for a proper diagnosis is important. Those who are at risk for this condition, such as those with a previous clotting disorder or a sedentary lifestyle, should pay close attention to this type of pain and seek help for it as soon as possible.
Can DVT Be Treated at Home?
If you notice any of the symptoms of blood clots or DVT, seek out medical help. It is not possible or safe to try to treat this condition at home.
Work with your doctor to determine changes you can make at home to prevent DVT, such as diet changes or medication. However, once there is a blood clot, or you suspect one, it’s critical to seek out medical care.
Once a DVT is present, it’s not beneficial or safe to apply pressure or otherwise risk breaking it up. Doing that could lead to a pulmonary embolism. Rather, your doctor can use vein procedures to safely remove or break up the clot in a controlled environment, minimizing any risk of a life-threatening condition.
Vein treatments are safe only when performed in a doctor’s office. Not acting is also dangerous because a portion of the blood clot can break off at any time, even without much straining.
It’s best to seek out care from your vein physicians in Vineland, New Jersey, as soon as possible. Safe, effective procedures and treatments are available.
Precautions to Take During COVID When Scheduling an Appointment
When you come in to meet our vein physicians in Vineland, Voorhees, Sewell, and Lumberton, New Jersey, make sure you take all necessary precautions to keep yourself and our office safe from COVID-19 risks. It starts with wearing a mask and using the hand sanitizer provided in our office. Our CVR Center is cleaned frequently to minimize risks.
Are you ready to get vein treatments to finally get the relief you need? Schedule a consult with us today to get treatment.