March is Deep Vein Thrombosis Awareness Month. In America, approximately 600,000 to 900,000 people are affected by DVT on an annual basis. DVT is a serious form of vascular disease where a blood clot develops in a deep vein, usually in the leg. The blood clot can break loose, traveling to the lungs or even the heart, potentially causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
Many have the misconception that vein issues are cosmetic. However, certain vein issues, such as varicose veins, and symptoms can indicate that you have a serious underlying condition, such as DVT.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Treatment
There are several different types of vein issues affecting a large portion of the population. By age 60, roughly 70% of women and 40% of men are affected. In fact, half of the population over age 50 experiences some sort of vein problem.
Since not all vein issues are cosmetic, individuals need to be more proactive about their vein health and seek treatment when it might be a more serious issue. If certain veins are left untreated, they could lead to severe complications and even be fatal.
There are two main types of vein issues, spider veins and varicose veins. Spider veins are not a health hazard. They form when tiny blood vessels near the skin surface weaken, enlarge, and fill with blood. They are less than two millimeters wide and are tiny, damaged, or dilated blood vessels that appear in red, blue, or purple spider-web or branch-like patterns just below the skin’s surface.
Common causes include genetic predisposition, aging, hormonal changes, and prolonged standing or sitting, which can impair blood flow. They are commonly found on the legs, ankles, and face, rarely causing physical symptoms beyond cosmetic concerns.
People tend to be concerned when they’re found on the face, particularly. These tend to be rosacea-related, a symptom of chronic skin inflammation. These aren’t dangerous and can be treated using laser therapy.
Varicose veins, on the other hand, can progress to a dangerous degree. Varicose veins are over 4mm in size and bulge beneath the skin. This is not just a cosmetic problem, but an indicator of DVT and other underlying venous insufficiency that can lead to serious health complications. If you have varicose veins, it’s a good idea to get them checked right away before they progress.
Since DVT occurs in the deep veins and can’t always be seen, symptoms can be a bit tricky to navigate. It’s pivotal to stay on top of symptoms and even be proactive, preventing vein issues from occurring in the first place.
Be aware of the symptoms of DVT
Leg pain and swelling:
One of the most common signs of DVT is swelling in the lower legs. If the leg appears larger than usual and feels a bit heavy, this is a huge indicator that you may be dealing with DVT. In addition to swelling, there may be pain or tenderness, mainly in the calf.
If you notice the pain getting worse the longer you stand or walk, and it doesn’t go away after taking a break, contact your doctor immediately.
Skin changes: Changes in skin color or texture can be a sign of DVT. The skin around the clot, especially in the legs, may become red, blue, or brownish. It’s also possible for the area around the discolored skin to feel warm or tight. If you experience these symptoms, it is very important that you take them seriously and speak with a doctor.
If a DVT clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, it causes a pulmonary embolism, which is life-threatening. Seek immediate, emergency medical attention if you experience sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, lightheadedness or fainting, and rapid pulse or breathing.
Be proactive
Rather than treating vein issues once they arise, there are several ways to be proactive and prevent them from occurring in the first place. A few lifestyle changes can save you a lot of pain in the long run.
Stay active: One of the best ways to prevent DVT is by staying active. Immobility, such as sitting in one position for long flights, sedentary work positions, and lying in bed for prolonged periods, can increase the risk of blood clots forming.
It’s pivotal that you make getting up and moving a priority. Regular motion, such as walking, stretching, and even standing up from your workstation to walk around for a few minutes, promotes healthy blood flow throughout your body and extremities.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Unhealthy habits such as smoking, dehydration, and a poor diet can contribute to the formation of blood clots. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Obesity increases the risk of DVT by causing chronic, low-grade inflammation, reducing the body’s ability to break down blood clots, and increasing pressure on the veins. A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet helps manage DVT by reducing blood viscosity, preventing cholesterol buildup, and strengthening blood vessels. Some great foods to incorporate into your diet include fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.
Avoid alcohol and smoking to support your vascular health. If these are a part of your day-to-day life, don’t quit cold turkey. Slowly let go of them until you get to the point of quitting. Taking steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle will lead to healthier veins and reduce the risks of DVT.
It’s especially important to be proactive about vein health if you have underlying conditions. People with a history of blood clots or cancer have a much higher risk of blood clotting. People at higher risk should consider wearing compression stockings or socks to help with blood flow in the lower extremities. Performing leg stretching exercises can also be helpful.
Understanding the symptoms and making efforts to prevent DVT is key. If you think you might have DVT, do not ignore the signs. Not all vein issues are cosmetic. If you notice Varicose veins growing or spreading, or leg swelling, seek medical attention. Speak with your physician and seek advice. Chances are, they will refer you to a specialist.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help you stay healthy and prevent further complications, leading to better outcomes. Don’t let symptoms linger, telling yourself you’ll get around to it. Take care of it immediately to prevent serious complications.
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