What happened to Victor Wembanyama? Deep vein thrombosis and ...
While it's unclear where Wembanyama's clot is located in the shoulder, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of ...
Deep vein thrombosis - 10 things to know with detail
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition in which a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs.
DVT can be a serious condition because if the blood clot breaks loose, it can travel through the bloodstream and lodge in the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening.
Risk factors for DVT include prolonged immobility (such as during long flights or bed rest), surgery, pregnancy, obesity, smoking, hormonal birth control, and a family history of blood clots.
Symptoms of DVT can include swelling, pain, redness, and warmth in the affected leg. However, some people with DVT may not have any symptoms at all.
Diagnosis of DVT is usually done through ultrasound imaging of the affected leg, which can show the presence of a blood clot.
Treatment for DVT typically involves blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) to prevent the blood clot from growing or breaking loose.
In some cases, more invasive treatments such as thrombolytic therapy (clot-busting drugs) or surgical removal of the clot may be necessary.
It is important to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect you have DVT, as early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications such as pulmonary embolism.
To prevent DVT, it is recommended to stay active and avoid long periods of immobility, especially during travel. Compression stockings may also be helpful for some individuals at higher risk.
If you have a history of DVT or other risk factors, talk to your healthcare provider about ways to reduce your risk and what signs and symptoms to watch out for.