Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, occurs when a blood clot forms in a large vein. At Reid Health, you can find the care you need for DVT and avoid serious complications.
Understanding deep vein thrombosis
Your body creates blood clots whenever you get injured. They help you heal. But sometimes, blood clots can form where they shouldn’t.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that occurs when a blood clot forms deep in your body. The clots can block blood flow, causing pain and swelling, or travel to your lungs and cause a life-threatening condition called a pulmonary embolism.
DVT can be treated. Getting help early allows you to address uncomfortable symptoms and, possibly, avoid serious complications.
With advanced services throughout East Central Indiana and West Central Ohio, you don’t have to travel far to get the care you need.
What is deep vein thrombosis?
DVT is a blood clot that forms in a large vein, usually in your leg, thigh, or pelvis. DVTs and other types of blood clots form when blood flow in the veins changes or slows.
Certain risk factors can increase the chances of developing DVT:
- Being age 60 or older
- Bed rest or prolonged sitting
- Conditions that might cause blood clotting, including cancer and autoimmune disorders
- Family history of blood clots
- Fractures in the legs or pelvis
- Obesity
- Taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
- Having a pacemaker or catheter
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Recent surgery
- Smoking
why choose reid health
The right place for DVT care
Our caring providers know how serious DVT can be. We offer many types of vein screenings and imaging tests that show whether you have a DVT, which means we can start treating it as soon as possible.
Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis
DVT can cause the following symptoms:
- Swollen veins that might feel sore when you touch them
- Pain and swelling, often in one leg
- Red or discolored skin around the DVT
- Skin around the blood clot that’s warm to the touch
If a DVT has traveled to your lungs, you might feel chest pain, a persistent cough, and shortness of breath. Call 911 immediately if you have these symptoms.
Deep vein thrombosis treatments at Reid
If you’re diagnosed with DVT, our providers will recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your needs.
Treatment typically involves a medicine called heparin that thins your blood and helps stop clots from forming. You might receive heparin through an IV or an injection.
Additional treatments for DVT include:
- Other blood thinners: Medications that help prevent new clots from forming and existing ones from getting larger
- Clot-busting medications: Drugs designed to dissolve blood clots that are already present in the veins
- Vena cava filter: A filter inserted into the vena cava to catch clots before they can travel to the lungs
To reduce the risk of future clots, your provider might suggest using compression socks, following an exercise plan, or continuing to use blood thinners.