Deep Vein Thrombosis

The veins are the blood vessels which return oxygen-poor blood back to the heart. The deep veins lie in groups of muscles. The deep vein leads to the body's largest vein, the vena cava which then leads to the heart.

A DVT is a blood clot in one of the deep veins, usually occurring in the pelvis region, thigh or calf. A DVT can also occur in the chest or arms, but is less common.

Signs & Symptoms

Sudden onset of severe pain, cramping or aching feeling in legs and arms

Swollen or warm red area on legs

Diagnosis

Physician's Examination A health care provider investigates the body of a patient for signs of disease. It generally follows the taking of the medical history - an account of the symptoms as experienced by the patient. Together with the medical history, the physical examination aids in determining the correct diagnosis and devising the treatment plan. This data then becomes part of the medical record.

Bloodwork A laboratory analysis performed on a blood sample that is usually extracted from a vein in the arm using a needle, or via fingerprick.

Ultrasound A form of medical ultrasonography (medical application of ultrasound technology) to visualize internal anatomical structures. It uses transmission and reflection of ultrasound waves to visualise the aorta from outside the body (with the help of gel which helps transmission of the sound waves).

Venogram A test to look at the veins in the body. A dye is injected which enhances the veins. A series of X-rays are then taken.

Magnetic Resonance 
Angiography (MRA)Magnetic Resonance Angiogram is a minimally invasive test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical problems. MRA uses magnetic field and radio waves to take pictures of the major blood vessels throughout the body. Sometimes contrast material is used to enhance the blood vessels. Both blood flow and the condition of the blood vessel wall can be seen..

CT Angiography (CTA) Computerized tomographic angiography is a minimally invasive test which combines a CT scan (X-rays and computerized images) and angiography to show detailed images of the blood vessels in the body.

Treatment

Stop Smoking

Maintain your blood sugar

Control your blood pressure

Lower your cholesterol levels

Bed rest and elevation of the extremity

Anticoagulant (blood thinner) medication

Thrombolytic/Thrombin Inhibitors (medicine that breaks up blood clots)

Vena Cava Filter

Compression Stockings