Deep vein thrombosis (or DVT) is a condition in which blood clots develop in deep veins, usually in the pelvis or the leg. While the condition may not always result in visible symptoms, one may experience issues such as cramp-like pain in the affected area. If left unchecked, the clot here can block blood flow or break free and travel through the bloodstream. So, the condition requires timely treatment to prevent further complications.

Symptoms
The first symptom of DVT is a cramp-like pain in the affected muscle. Beyond this, one may experience the following signs:

– A mild fever
– Localized warmth and redness
– Swelling
– Tenderness in the affected area
– Dark and raised veins

If the clot breaks and reaches the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism—a sudden blockage in the arteries transporting blood to the lungs. Here, one may experience mild breathlessness and chest discomfort, or more noticeable signs, like a rapid heart rate, sharp chest pain, coughing up blood, and severe shortness of breath. One should consult a doctor if they notice any such signs.

Causes and risk factors
The following factors may contribute to the formation of a clot in the deep vein:

Injury: Here, a wound may damage a blood vessel wall, blocking or reducing the blood flow and resulting in a blood clot.

Surgery: Blood vessels may also be damaged when undergoing certain surgical procedures, increasing the risk of blood clots. Bed rest with little or no movement following surgery also aggravates the risk.

Inactivity or prolonged immobility: Sitting or lying down for prolonged periods (for instance, on a flight) causes blood to slow down and accumulate in the lower parts of the legs.

Age: DVT can affect anyone, but the risk is higher in older adults.

Pregnancy: Pregnant women are five to ten times more susceptible to developing DVT.

Trauma: An injury that damages the veins, such as a fracture, may increase the risk of a blood clot.

Family history: Those who have family members with DVT are at a higher risk of developing the condition. A genetic blood clotting disorder also increases the risk.

Catheter: A catheter inserted in the vein can also contribute to the formation of a blood clot.

Cancer: Brain, stomach, lung, pancreatic, and other types of cancer can contribute to the development of DVT, especially when undergoing chemotherapy.

Further, health conditions like sepsis, diabetes, sleep apnea, inflammatory bowel disease, tuberculosis, issues like heart failure or high blood pressure, asthma, and polycystic ovary syndrome can increase the risk of DVT.

Treatment options
Prescription treatment: Certain prescription options can prevent existing clots from growing or new ones from forming. Further, certain options administered via a catheter can break up and dissolve blood clots to restore blood flow.

Filters: Those who cannot opt for prescription treatment can get filters placed into a vein. The filter prevents clots that break loose from reaching the lungs.

Surgery: In rare cases, doctors may recommend a surgical procedure called thrombectomy to remove clots.

Finally, wearing compression socks can prevent DVT-induced swelling and reduce the risk of clotting and accumulation of blood in the affected areas.