Deep vein thrombosis
3-minute read
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that occurs in a deep vein; that is, a vein that is not on the surface of the skin. DVT can occur anywhere, but is most often seen in the leg.
If you think you might have DVT, see a doctor. The most serious complication of DVT is pulmonary embolism, which is when a piece of the blood clot breaks off and lodges in the lung. This causes a serious illness and is potentially life-threatening.
Signs and symptoms of DVT
The main signs and symptoms of DVT are pain and swelling in the affected area - usually your calf or thigh.
Some people have no signs or symptoms.
When to seek help
DVT is a serious condition, so if you think you may have DVT, you should see a doctor without delay.
Call an ambulance on triple zero (000) if you:
- become short of breath
- have pain in your chest
- have a rapid pulse
- feel dizzy or faint
- cough up blood
These are the signs of a possible pulmonary embolism.
What causes DVT?
Anything that slows blood flow in deep veins can cause DVT.
People who have DVT may have:
- been in bed for long periods, such as when in hospital
- been inactive, such as during a long flight
- had major surgery
- had an injury, such as a fracture
- had a major illness such as cancer, heart failure or a serious infection
- been taking the oral contraceptive pill or hormone replacement therapy containing oestrogen
Women who are pregnant or who have recently had a baby are also at increased risk of DVT. So are people who are overweight, or who smoke.
DVT can also happen spontaneously, with no apparent cause. Some people with spontaneous DVTs have a genetic condition that makes their blood more likely to clot.
DVT diagnosis
To diagnose DVT, the doctor will need to talk to you about your symptoms and examine you to look for signs of DVT, such as swelling and pain.
After this, if your doctor thinks you may have DVT, they may suggest you have an ultrasound. Blood tests can also be done to help detect blood clots.
DVT treatment
If you have DVT, you will be treated with medicine that reduces the risk of blood clotting. You may also be asked to wear compression stockings.
Prevention of DVT
If you are travelling or are hospitalised, you can reduce your risk of developing DVT by wearing compression stockings, moving your feet and legs as much as possible, and drinking plenty of water.
More generally, keeping fit, maintaining a healthy weight and not smoking can help reduce your chance of getting DVT.
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Last reviewed: February 2019
