DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS (DVT)

Overview
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. It can partially or completely block blood flow, leading to swelling and pain. The greatest danger is that the clot can break off and travel to the lungs, causing a life-threatening condition called a pulmonary embolism (PE).

Why It’s Important
DVT can occur silently and become life-threatening if it leads to a pulmonary embolism. It’s a major cause of preventable hospital deaths, and long-term complications like post-thrombotic syndrome can cause chronic pain and swelling.

Quick Facts

  • Most common in adults over age 50, but can occur at any age

  • About 900,000 people are affected annually in the U.S. (CDC)

  • Considered an acute condition, though long-term complications may be chronic

  • Frequently occurs after surgery, during prolonged immobility, or in those with clotting disorders

  • Can affect one or both legs, but most often occurs in the lower leg or thigh

What Happens in the Body
A blood clot (thrombus) forms in a deep vein—often in the legs—due to slow or stagnant blood flow, damage to the blood vessel, or a clotting tendency in the blood. This clot may obstruct blood flow, causing swelling and inflammation, or travel to the lungs, leading to a pulmonary embolism.

Common Signs and Symptoms

  • Swelling in one leg (rarely both)

  • Pain or tenderness, especially when standing or walking

  • Warmth in the affected area

  • Red or discolored skin on the leg

  • In some cases, no symptoms at all

  • Warning sign of pulmonary embolism: sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood

Diagnosis

  • Doppler ultrasound: primary test to detect clots in deep veins

  • D-dimer blood test: checks for clotting activity

  • Venography (rare): dye is injected to view veins on X-ray

  • Seek medical care if you have leg pain, swelling, and risk factors like recent surgery or immobility

Treatment and Management

  • Anticoagulants (blood thinners) like heparin or warfarin to prevent clot growth

  • Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like apixaban or rivaroxaban

  • In severe cases: thrombolytics (clot-busting drugs) or surgical clot removal

  • Compression stockings to reduce swelling and prevent complications

  • Physical activity and hydration to support circulation

  • Treatment typically lasts 3–6 months, but may be lifelong if risk is ongoing

Risks and Complications

  • Pulmonary embolism (PE): a potentially fatal condition if the clot travels to the lungs

  • Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS): long-term pain, swelling, and skin discoloration

  • Chronic venous insufficiency

  • Risk of recurrence without proper treatment or prevention

Who Is at Risk

  • Recent surgery or hospitalization, especially orthopedic procedures

  • Prolonged immobility (long flights, bedrest, paralysis)

  • Cancer or cancer treatment

  • Pregnancy and postpartum period

  • Hormone therapy or birth control pills

  • Obesity, smoking, or family history of blood clots

  • Inherited clotting disorders (e.g., Factor V Leiden)

Related Conditions

  • Pulmonary embolism (PE)

  • Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS)

  • Chronic venous insufficiency

  • Superficial thrombophlebitis

When to See a Doctor

  • Sudden swelling, pain, or redness in one leg

  • Breathing difficulties or chest pain, especially if you recently had DVT symptoms

  • After surgery or long immobility, if unusual leg discomfort appears

  • If you’ve had DVT before and notice similar symptoms returning

Last Updated: June 19, 2025