Deep Vein Thrombophlebitis |
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DESCRIPTION
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Deep vein thrombophlebitis (throm-bo-fleh-BITE-is) or thrombosis is also called DVT for short. It develops when a blood clot forms inside a vein. The clot may block part or all of the blood flow. It may also break away from the vein wall and lodge in a lung. DVT usually occurs in the lower legs (calves) or lower pelvis. Rarely does it occur elsewhere in the body.
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CAUSES
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The clots usually develop when blood pools or sits in a vein for an extended period. Resting in bed for a long time because of surgery or a long illness (such as a heart attack or stroke) may cause the blood to pool.
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SYMPTOMS
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Swelling, pain, and redness in the area of the clot (usually in the ankle, calf, or thigh). Walking may be painful.
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CARE
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You will be put in the hospital and given blood thinners to keep clots from forming. This also allows the body to break up clots. You may also need tests to find out where and how big the clot is. The earlier you are treated the less likely you are to get a clot in your lung.
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COMPLICATIONS
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s A blood clot in the leg is not dangerous, though it can lead to long-term problems. But if the clot breaks off and floats into the lung, it can be deadly if left untreated. Early care can keep this from happening.
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