9 Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis represents the formation of a clot which consists of coagulated blood within the deep veins. The clot formation is most likely to affect the deep veins of the legs or arms. However, the clot might be formed in any region of the body. It's common for patients who suffer from deep vein thrombosis neither experience any symptoms nor develop any sign of the disease. This can be dangerous, because if the clot becomes fragmented or dislodged, the clot may travel through the venous circulation to the heart where it might obstruct the supply of blood causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. Statistics demonstrate that deep vein thrombosis is a common condition. According to the data published by the National Center for Health Statistics [NCHS], deep vein thrombosis occurs with an incidence of one case per thousand population. Also, deep vein thrombosis represents the most relevant risk factor for the development of pulmonary embolism. Why does thrombosis occur? A century ago, a famous German pathologist, Rudolf Virchow, explained how thrombosis could occur. Three factors have to be present for a clot to develop: stasis (impaired circulation), vein damage and activation of the coagulation cascade (blood clotting). Each condition that leads to the development of the factors above might cause the formation of thrombus (blood clot). Among the most common diseases and conditions that increase the risk of deep venous thrombosis are cancer, acute infectious diseases, old age, obesity, surgery, prolonged immobility and prior history of deep vein thrombosis. Conditions that also contribute include pregnancy, stroke, congestive heart failure, trauma, fractures, contraceptives, burns, and the use of intravenous drugs. Also, if you had a family member who had deep vein thrombosis, you are at a higher risk of developing this disease. 1. Leg (extremity) pain. The clinical presentation of deep vein thrombosis is mostly unspecific. Experiencing pain in the leg is one of the most common complaints when a clot forms in the deep vein of the leg. The intensity of the pain may vary from very mild to severe pain. However, most patients commonly report a mild to moderate pain intensity. The pain intensity does not correlate with the extent of thrombotic disease. 2. Tenderness. Pain and tenderness frequently occur together in patients with deep vein thrombosis. Tenderness is usually present along the path of the deep vein. In legs, this is usually in the region of the calf and at the back side of the knee. Tenderness, if caused by deep vein thrombosis, is only present specifically at the site where the clot has formed. Outside this specific region, tenderness is not caused by thrombus formation. If the thrombus is located above the knee, the most common site of tenderness is the inner part of the thigh. More symptoms on next page... 3. Edema. Blood clots within the deep vein impairs the circulation of blood, which directly leads to the stasis of the venous blood and impaired venous drainage, which results in edema (the abnormal accumulation of fluid). Swollen leg represents a more specific symptom than pain and tenderness. However, it might be caused by other pathological conditions, so any swelling should checked immediately by a healthcare professional. 4. Warmth and Erythema. Inflammation of the area surrounding the clot represents a sign of deep vein thrombosis. Inflammation is reflected in the localized sensation of warmth and skin redness (erythema) which is at the exact site of deep vein thrombosis. The sensation of warmth might be followed by a tingling sensation. Please note that this tingling sensation, throbbing or pain will not respond to standard pain medication and might get worse over time. 5. Varicose veins and distended capillaries. Sometimes, due to the lack of the circulation, superficial veins may be distended leading to varicose veins and marked capillaries near the area of the clot. In extreme circumstances, superficial veins may rupture leading to bruising, which is extremely rare. 6. Foot pain. Foot pain is an unspecific symptom but might occur if deep vein thrombosis develops. This is because with reduced circulation the foot tissues don't receive enough oxygen. 7. Skin discoloration. The reduction in blood circulation also causes the skin to lose the natural pink color. If left untreated, the clot might increase in size, and cause a more severe circulation impairment which will result in the area to become bluish and cold to touch. 8. Pulmonary embolism. For some unfortunate patients, the only visible symptom of deep vein thrombosis is a pulmonary embolism. When parts of the clot detach and travel to the heart, they might obstruct the arterial supply of the lungs thereby causing massive destruction of lung tissue. The most common symptoms of pulmonary embolism are the sudden onset of shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, fatigue, increased heart rate or palpitations. The severity of pulmonary embolism also varies from severe, life-threatening to a fatal condition. Pulmonary embolism represents an acute loss of lung function and has to be treated immediately. Patients with pulmonary embolism require aggressive treatment within intensive care units, but if diagnosed properly, and promptly, this condition might be reversed. 9. No visible symptoms! Approximately half of all patients with deep vein thrombosis do not experience any symptoms. Knowing this, it is essential to recognize the risk factors mentioned in this article and perform check-ups regularly to prevent the development of deep veg thrombosis. If you have any of the risk factors mentioned here, you should consult with your physician to know if any examinations are necessary. Early diagnosis is always linked with better therapeutic outcomes. Consult with your physician also regarding the preventive measures such as physical activity, wearing compressive socks, and stopping smoking.

9. No visible symptoms!

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