Our bodies respond to tissue injuries by forming blood clots. Since the early man, blood clots have continued to be our bodies’ prevention of excessive bleeding. However, veins in the body can harbor clots and cause deep vein thrombosis (DVT), affecting about 2 million Americans. Out of these, approximately 60,000 die each year due to the lack of the intervention of a cardiologist in Bakersfield, CA. DVT’s elusive symptoms account for the morbidity rate of 30% within the first month of diagnosis. Early intervention is vital in managing DVT before it descends into severe deep vein disease.
1. Skin discoloration
The skin over the affected area may become red or bluish. Deep vein thrombosis inhibits blood circulation and causes blood build-up in the affected region. Blood pooling in the veins of the legs manifests as superficial discoloration. Usually, the blood clot is in the superficial veins at this stage, and the perforator vein sieves out blood clots from the deep veins. Superficial blood clotting is not fatal; however, a blend of genetic factors and lifestyle adjustments can cause superficial blood clotting to develop into DVT.
2. Pain
Pain in the lower leg is the first harbinger of deep vein thrombosis. The lower leg pain resembles a pulling sensation that accompanies soreness and cramping. The excruciating pain intensifies when you stand for prolonged periods or walk long distances. Blood clot in the veins is the origin of the pain. Leg pain worsens over time as DVT manifestations intensify.
3. Swelling
Deep vein thrombosis impedes blood flow to the heart and causes blood pooling in the arms and legs. Blood pooling and fluid backup put pressure on the affected area, and it bulges outwards. The swelled area is usually tender and sensitive to touch. If you notice swelling in the lower leg, then you should consult a cardiovascular expert.
4. Warm sensation
Blood clots in the deep veins constrict blood flow back to the heart when the veins contract. Blood hence pools in the veins and bulges outwards. The warm feeling on your leg is a sign of blood pooling due to deep vein thrombosis. The warm sensation is rarely in both legs at the same time.
5. Pain when you flex your foot
The Homan’s and the Pratt’s signs are rudimentary techniques medical practitioners performed to determine deep vein thrombosis. When you bend your legs while pointing your toes upwards (Homan’s sign) and your leg radiates pain, you may have DVT. More effective diagnostic tests have been developed over time.
If you experience any of the above warning signs, you should visit a vascular center. However, you should not use the symptoms for self-diagnosis. Symptoms move from mildly annoying to extremely painful after some time. Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans are critical in managing deep vein thrombosis before it causes fatal pulmonary embolism.
Deep vein thrombosis singularly is not fatal. However, DVT can cause a deadly pulmonary embolism. Early intervention helps you survive DVT and enjoy everyday life. Contact Heart Vascular and Leg Center for a correct assessment of early DVT and subsequent efficacious treatment plans.
