A lot of people will have heard of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) but many would necessarily know what it is or what to look out for. An important part of our roles as healthcare practitioners is that of differential diagnosis – being able to rule out other possible causes for someone’s symptoms/pain that may need further investigations.
What is a DVT?
A DVT is a blood clot that develops within the deep veins and obstructs blood flow. They most commonly occur in the leg but can affect the veins of the pelvis or arms. The disruption of circulation results in pain and swelling. If left untreated it can lead to pulmonary embolism, which is where part of the clot breaks off and blocks blood supply within the lungs- this is serious and must be treated urgently.
What are the symptoms?
- Pain and tenderness in one of the legs
- Swelling in the calf or thigh
- Warm and red skin in the affected area
The symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include chest pain and shortness of breath.
Who is more at risk?
In the UK, DVT affects 1-2 in 1000 people each year. They can affect anyone, however, they are more likely to affect people with risk factors, such as:
- A history of DVT
- Family history of DVT
- Inactivity for longer periods, for example during a long flight or after an operation
- Age over 60 years
- Being overweight or obese
- Cancer
- Heart Failure
- Trauma
- Smoking
- Varicose Veins
- Pregnancy
- Hormone replacement therapy or contraceptive pill
Can you reduce the risk of getting a DVT?
You can take steps to reduce your risk of DVT by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and keeping active. If you are going on a longer journey – car, train, aeroplane for example, remember to drink plenty of water as hydration is an important factor; try to take regular breaks for walking, break up that car journey or walk up and down the plane a few times; and perform leg exercises throughout such as circling your feet around, squeezing your bottom muscles – similar to the exercises they recommend you do when giving blood now.
What to do if you suspect you have a DVT?
If you have any symptoms of a DVT you should contact your GP for an urgent appointment or call 111. They can refer you for a Doppler ultrasound scan, which is a diagnostic test to check the circulation in the large veins in the legs (sometimes arms). This examination shows any blockage in the veins by a blood clot or ‘thrombus’ formation. However, if you have a swollen, tender leg accompanied by shortness of breath or chest pain, you should call 999 or go straight to A&E.
Only a third of people with a suspected DVT will have one. There are other causes of a painful and swollen calf such as muscle strain or cellulitis, however, it is really important to rule out a DVT first.
At Walnut Grove Clinic, we will always use our diagnostic skills to determine if it is safe to treat someone, using full case history notes and then through a thorough examination. If we feel a further referral is necessary, we will guide you to the best place whilst reassuring you too.
