DVT - The Silent Killer

What You Need to Know in Preventing DVT

May 4, 2009 Shadia Ismail

DVT is a serious condition that occurs from a blood clot in a vein that if left untreated can be a fatal condition.

Deep vein thrombosis, also known as DVT is often referred to as the silent killer, a killer that is not only treatable but preventable if detected. When NBC reporter David Bloom died of DVT in 2003 while covering the Iraq war, the health concerns surrounding this condition were thrust into the spotlight - and for good reason. A study done by the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute states that DVT affects about 200, 000 Canadians a year and 60, 000 patients are hospitalized because of it.

What is Deep Vein Thrombosis?

DVT is the formation of a blood clot in a vein, occurring most commonly in legs, especially the calf area. In the May 3rd issue of the Detroit Free Press, a Harvard Medical School Advisor writes that, “most cases of DVT are triggered by one of three conditions: slowed flow of blood, a boost in the activity of the blood's clotting system or an injury to a vein. The risk of DVT increases with surgery, especially on the hips or knees; sitting still for long periods, such as on a cross-country flight; prolonged bed rest; leg paralysis; strokes; heart failure; trauma; smoking; obesity; blood-clotting abnormalities; some medications; and widespread cancer.”

There is also an increased risk in women who take contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy and pregnancy or have recently given birth.

Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis

According to eHealthMD, some of the symptoms may vary depending on the severity of each case and outlines what to look for:

Pain in the leg
Tenderness in the calf (this is one of the most important signs)
Leg tenderness
Increased warmth of the leg
Redness in the leg
Bluish skin discoloration
Discomfort when the foot is pulled upward

Complications of Deep Vein Thrombosis

DVT can lead to a pulmonary embolism which can be fatal. Information on eHealthMD explains that this happens when “…a clot becomes dislodged from a vein, travels to the lung, and blocks or partially blocks the pulmonary artery leading from the heart to the lungs.” A blockage of the pulmonary artery, which results in a pulmonary embolism, means that blood flow to the lungs is not possible and could result in death.

Treating Deep Vein Thrombosis

There are various methods of testing for and treating. Ultrasound and blood tests can indicate if a patient has thrombosis. Blood thinning medications are used as treatment so as to break down and/or prevent further clotting and allows for easier blood flow.

DVT affects thousands of people every year. If left undetected or untreated, this condition can be fatal. Taking the proper precautionary measures to help prevent this silent killer could save your life.

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