Last week, we started our discussion about deep vein thrombosis (DVT) with some basic information about the causes, risk factors, and complications of this serious health condition. Today, we are going to continue that discussion by talking about the diagnosis and treatment of DVT and how you can decrease your risk of having a DVT.
How is Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Here are some of the common diagnostic tests used:
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Ultrasound – The primary test for DVT, ultrasound uses sound waves to visualize blood flow and detect clots. -
D-dimer test – A blood test that measures a substance released when a blood clot breaks up. This test can be elevated for other reasons, so it is not 100% accurate.
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Venography – An invasive procedure where a dye is injected into a vein to visualize blood flow and detect clots on X-rays.
What are the Treatment Options for Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Treating DVT aims to prevent clot growth and reduce the risk of complications. Common treatments include:
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Anticoagulants (blood thinners) – Help prevent new clots from forming and existing clots from growing.
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Compression stockings – These stockings reduce swelling and improve blood flow in the legs.
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Thrombolytics – Medications that dissolve clots may be used in some cases.
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Surgery – Rarely, surgery may be necessary to remove a clot.
What Other Tests Might You Need?
If you develop a DVT without an obvious trigger (like a recent long car or plane trip, or a recent surgical procedure or other reason for being immobile for a prolonged period), or if you have had more than one DVT, then your doctor would likely want to do further tests to see if you have an underlying condition that has increased your risk for developing DVT. In this case, tests might include:
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Testing for the presence of factors in the blood that increase your risk of clotting, or absence of factors that decrease your risk of clotting
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Testing for lupus and other inflammatory or autoimmune conditions
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Screening tests for cancer
Can Deep Vein Thrombosis Be Prevented?
Yes. Preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of DVT. Here are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing DVT:
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Stay active – Regular exercise helps maintain healthy blood flow.
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Take frequent breaks when traveling – Stop the car and walk around, get up from your plane or train seat and walk around. You don’t want a DVT to ruin your trip!
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Maintain a healthy weight
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Quit smoking – It will improve your circulation and overall health.
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Stay hydrated – Drinking plenty of water keeps blood from thickening.
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Wear compression stockings – Especially during long flights or periods of immobility. If you are otherwise healthy, you don’t need prescription compression stockings for prevention. You can buy good compression socks at most athletic or running stores or online.
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Follow medical advice – Particularly after surgery or during pregnancy.
If you have any questions about Deep Vein Thrombosis, please log into your account and send us your question. We are here to help.
Dr. Anita Bennett MD – Health Tip Content Editor