Lincolnwood: 4318 West Touhy Avenue, Lincolnwood, IL 60712
Mt. Prospect: 80 East Northwest Hwy, Mt. Prospect, IL 60056
CALL US NOW! 847-675-9500
Blood Clot, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) - Diagnosis & Treatment Near Chicago, IL
When a blood clot forms in the deep vein system, it is called a deep vein thrombosis, or DVT. DVTs usually occur in the lower extremities, but they can appear in other parts of the body. The venous system of the lower extremity is divided into the superficial veins, which include the great and small saphenous veins and their associated accessory tributaries, and the deep venous system, which includes the femoral and popliteal veins. Intermediate veins called perforators connect them. DVT can lead to partial or complete blockage of circulation, which can cause serious medical problems. Nearly 2 million Americans are affected by DVT each year.
Finding Warning Signs of DVT
As many as 50% of patients with a DVT show no symptoms at all. These silent DVTs can resolve without treatment or may lead to complications such as a pulmonary embolism (PE). A PE is a dangerous condition because it can damage the lungs and other organs and is life-threatening.
Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Pain or tenderness
- Warmth
- Swelling (edema)
- Redness
Reduce Your Risk of DVT
Vacations are a particularly dangerous time for DVT. Traveling on an airplane, in a car, on a bus, or on a train increases your risk, especially if you have recently had surgery, are pregnant, are overweight, or have a history of blood clots.
- Wearing compression stockings while traveling can significantly reduce your risk for DVT. These stockings help increase the circulation in your legs. Make sure to purchase medical-grade stockings.
- Stay hydrated. Drink lots of water and avoid caffeine or alcohol because both are dehydrating.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothes during the trip.
- Get up out of your seat every hour or two. In an airplane, it is helpful to request an aisle seat so it is easier to stretch out and move around. In a car, stop at a gas station or rest area and walk around every couple of hours.
- While seated, rotate your ankles, draw circles on the ground with your toes, flex your feet and toes, and raise your legs slightly, holding them in the air for a few seconds.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The veins of the legs are classified anatomically. The “deep” veins are within and below the muscles, and the “superficial” veins are above the muscles. DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) occurs when a thrombus or clot obstructs a vein. It is a serious condition that can lead to disability and even death if the thrombus travels through the bloodstream to the lungs. When this happens, it is called a pulmonary embolus (PE).