Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins in your body, usually in your legs.

Pronunciation

Deep Vein Thrombosis is pronounced as /di:p vein θrɒmbəʊsɪs/.

Etymology

The term "Deep Vein Thrombosis" is derived from the Latin words "Thrombosis" (clotting), "Vein" (blood vessel), and "Deep" (far down).

Definition

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein located deep inside your body. A blood clot is a clump of blood that is in a gelatinous, solid state. Deep vein blood clots typically form in your thigh or lower leg, but they can also develop in other areas of your body. Other names for this condition include thromboembolism, post-thrombotic syndrome, and postphlebitic syndrome.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis can include swelling in the foot, ankle, or leg, usually on one side. Cramping pain in your affected leg. The pain often starts in your calf and can feel like cramping or a charley horse. Warmth over the affected area. Changes in your skin color, such as turning pale, red or blue.

Causes

The blood clots of Deep Vein Thrombosis can be caused by anything that prevents your blood from circulating or clotting normally, such as injury to a vein, surgery, certain medications and limited movement.

Treatment

Treatment aims to prevent the clot from getting bigger, from breaking loose and traveling to the lungs, and to reduce the chance of deep vein thrombosis happening again. Treatments include blood thinners, clot busters, filters and compression stockings.

Related Terms

• Thrombosis
• Blood Clot
• Vein
• Pulmonary Embolism

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Deep Vein Thrombosis
• Wikipedia's article - Deep Vein Thrombosis

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