The Venous Institute of Buffalo
Vein Treatment Clinical Information
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
For More Information:
- Download a brochure to learn about the purpose and mission of the Venous Disease Coalition
- Download a pamphlet to learn the Ten Reasons why the Venous Disease Coalition wants the general public to know about Venous Disease
- Visit the Venous Disease Coalition website
- See Dr. Vasquez on WGRZ for a special report on deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Read Dr. Vasquez interview with WIVB for a report on the risk of blood clots
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot develops within a deep vein, usually of the leg or pelvis. These are not the superficial veins that can be visible beneath the skin, as is the case with varicose veins. Deep veins are larger and located within the muscles. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is usually the result of an underlying condition or risk factor that causes poor blood circulation, rapid blood clotting, or irritation or inflammation of the inner vein lining.
Regardless of the cause, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) can be particularly dangerous if left untreated. There is a risk of the clot breaking free and traveling elsewhere in the body. A clot that breaks free and moves to a new area is called an embolus, and can cause serious complications.
If the embolus lodges in an artery of the lung, it can become a potentially fatal Pulmonary Embolism (PE). Although not as common as a pulmonary embolism, the embolus can cause a heart attack, stroke, or renal vein thrombosis if lodged in the heart, brain, or kidneys, respectively. Early evaluation and diagnosis by a qualified medical professional are of the utmost importance to the successful treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
About half of the cases of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) cause no noticeable symptoms. When symptoms are present, they are similar to those of many other health conditions, so it is important to know if you are at risk of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
Common Risk Factors:
- Recent surgery
- Serious injury causing decreased blood flow or vein damage
- Prolonged bedrest or immobility
- Personal or family history of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke
- Cancer and cancer treatments
- Congestive heart failure
- Obesity
- Chronic respiratory failure
- History of smoking
- Hormone therapy or use of birth control pills or patches
- Pregnancy or recently giving birth
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Varicose veins
Common Symptoms
- Leg pain or tenderness
- Leg swelling
- Discoloration of leg; usually blue, purple, or red
A Warning About Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
A pulmonary embolism can occur without obvious symptoms. If present, the symptoms are common to other medical conditions and can include chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid pulse, a cough that may or may not produce blood, and severe lightheadedness. Whether caused by a pumonary embolism or other condition, these symptoms are critical and require immediate medical attention.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Treatment
There are several options for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). After a thorough evaluation, the vein treatment experts at The Venous Institute of Buffalo will guide you through treatment.
