Samwel Mikaye: Deep Vein Thrombosis and What You Need to Know
Samwel Mikaye, Medical Doctor at MSK, shared a post on LinkedIn:
”Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, most commonly in the leg. It can be dangerous because part of the clot can break off and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE).
Common signs and symptoms
Usually affects one leg:
- Swelling of the leg, ankle or calf
- Calf or thigh pain/tenderness
- Warmth over the affected area
- Redness or discoloration
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness in the leg
Some DVTs may have no symptoms.
Risk factors
- Pregnancy and the postpartum period
- Recent surgery or hospitalization
- Prolonged immobility or long-distance travel
- Previous DVT/PE
- Cancer
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Estrogen-containing contraceptives or hormone therapy
- Certain inherited clotting disorders
Diagnosis
Clinical assessment can include the Wells score, followed by:
- D-dimer in appropriate patients
- Compression/Doppler ultrasound of the affected limb
Treatment
Confirmed DVT is usually treated with anticoagulation, such as:
- Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH)
- Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs)
- Warfarin in selected situations
The choice depends on factors such as pregnancy, kidney function, cancer, bleeding risk and other medications.
DVT in pregnancy
Pregnancy increases the risk of venous thromboembolism. LMWH is commonly used for treatment during pregnancy. Warfarin and most DOACs are generally avoided during pregnancy.
Emergency warning signs
A person with suspected DVT who develops:
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Chest pain, especially with breathing
- Coughing up blood
- Fainting or severe dizziness
- Rapid heartbeat
may have a pulmonary embolism and needs emergency medical attention immediately.”
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