Also known as DVT, this condition refers to a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, most often in the legs. This can block the flow of blood back to the heart and lungs, as well as cause swelling and pain. If the clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism—a serious and life-threatening condition.
Symptoms of DVT
The symptoms of DVT may include:
- Pain and swelling in the leg, ankle and foot
- Discolored skin (can appear red, blue or purple)
- Chest pain
- Unexplained coughing up of blood
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Rapid heart rate
- Dizziness/lightheadedness
Treatment options for DVT
DVT can be treated with medications, such as blood thinners, as well as compression stockings to help reduce swelling and pain. A surgical procedure called a thrombectomy is sometimes performed to remove the clot. A minimally invasive treatment performed at North Star Vascular and Interventional is called thrombolysis. This procedure breaks up the clot with a medication that is injected into the vein using a special catheter guided by X-ray imaging.