Kate Iyore: Simple Explanation of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism
Kate Iyore, Senior Consultant at Cedarcrest Hospitals, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE) – Simple Explanation
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) are conditions caused by blood clots in the body. They are closely related and can be serious if not treated quickly.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) happens when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. This clot can block normal blood flow.
DVT often occurs when blood is not moving well, such as during long periods of sitting or lying down (for example, long trips, illness, or after surgery).
Common causes and risk factors include:
- Staying still for a long time (bed rest, long flights or car rides)
- Surgery or injury
- Pregnancy
- Being overweight
- Cancer
- Use of hormonal drugs (like birth control pills)
Signs of DVT may include:
- Swelling in one leg
- Pain or tenderness in the leg
- Warmth and redness of the skin
Sometimes, there may be no symptoms at all.
Pulmonary Embolism (PE) happens when part of the clot from the leg breaks off and travels to the lungs.
This can block blood flow in the lungs and make it hard to breathe. PE is more dangerous and can be life-threatening.
Signs of PE include:
- Sudden difficulty in breathing
- Chest pain (especially when breathing in)
- Fast heartbeat
- Cough (sometimes with blood)
- Feeling dizzy or faint
Why it is dangerous:
A clot in the lungs can reduce oxygen in the body and put stress on the heart. In severe cases, it can cause sudden death.
Treatment:
Doctors treat DVT and PE mainly with blood-thinning medicines (anticoagulants).
These drugs do not remove the clot immediately but stop it from getting bigger and prevent new clots from forming. In very serious cases, special drugs may be used to dissolve the clot.
Prevention:
You can reduce your risk by:
- Moving around regularly, especially during long trips
- Avoiding long periods of staying still
- Drinking enough water
- Following medical advice after surgery or illness
- Using prescribed blood thinners if you are at high risk
In summary:
DVT is a blood clot in the leg, while PE is when that clot travels to the lungs. Both conditions are serious but can be prevented and treated if detected early”
Proceed to the video attached to the post.
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