Causes of Deep Vein Thrombosis
When you are walking along and minding your own business, you do not think a scary, life-threatening problem can occur. But sometimes, when we least expect it, life throws us a curveball. Deep vein thrombosis, also known as DVT, can have a sudden onset and cause you pain, swelling, redness and warmth in your legs and feet. If you feel any of these combined symptoms while walking around, it is time to stop in your tracks and call for help!
Here is why:
When the body is functioning normally, blood flows through the arteries all over the body including the legs, allowing them to function normally. Arteries carry blood to the extremities while veins bring the used blood back. Our legs have veins as well as arteries. The veins in our legs have different depths. Some of the veins are located deep within the leg while others are closer to the top of the skin. When the veins malfunction, they clot and can cause a pulmonary embolism.
DVT symptoms should be considered a medical emergency.
If you suspect you are suffering from signs and symptoms of DVT, call for help immediately.
Factors that can increase the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis
If you have experienced any of the following conditions in your life, you may be at risk for DVT:
Previous episode of DVT
40 Years of age or older
Recent surgery
Trauma
Lack of mobility
Smoking
Varicose veins
Blood clotting disorders
History within the family of DVT
Heart disease
Legs that swell chronically
Obesity
Sepsis
Hormone replacement therapy
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Cancer
Dehydration
Birth control pills
Pregnancy or recent childbirth
Signs and Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis
If you experience these signs and symptoms, seek help immediately.
Pain in the calf or thigh
Warmth and redness of the leg
Swelling in the leg
If you have a medical history of DVT or know someone in the family who does, reach out to a podiatrist to start taking proactive measures. Contact Dyker Park Footcare, PLLC located in Brooklyn, NY. There our Foot and Ankle Doctors can educate you on deep vein thrombosis. Call (718) 745-6220 or request an appointment online today.
