Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

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Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot deep beneath the surface of the skin, usually located in the deep veins of the legs. These deep vein thrombi can occur anywhere in the body, but are generally present in the pelvic region and below. The lower regions of the body endure added stress from excess weight that can increase risk as blood flow is interrupted or slowed. The blood clot can be dangerous, because once it grows large in size, it will eventually break off from the place it formed and travel freely throughout the veins.

Once it breaks off of its original vein, it can be fatal if left undetected. This deep vein embolism isn’t able to travel freely for too long, since eventually it will become lodged in an artery or move into the heart, where it will block blood flow and induce a heart attack (as the heart will be deprived of oxygen). When someone is affected by this embolus in the heart, it’s referred to as a pulmonary embolism (PE). It’s estimated that in later years, one-third of those that develop deep vein thrombosis will die from the condition if left undiagnosed and untreated.

• Elderly (60 years+)
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Chronic vein insufficiency/varicose veins
• Individuals with congestive heart failure
• Trauma in the legs
• Decrease in activity post surgery

• Pain, swelling or tenderness in the legs
• Varicose veins
• Swelling in calves and ankles
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Pain when walking

Blood clots caused by DVT are often caused by lack of movement and/or thick blood that has a tendency to easily coagulate. Sometimes, the lack of movement is brought on by serious surgeries that require long durations of bed rest, so in this instance, it is vital that each patient is moved continuously throughout their time in the hospital to avoid the formation of DVT. Those that have had invasive surgery such as hip replacements have increased risk for the development of DVT. It’s also known that of those that are affected by DVT, about half will develop a pulmonary embolism.

Deep vein thrombosis is not extremely common, but approximately 200,000 Canadians are affected each year. These numbers are far less than that of heart attack and stroke, but are still cause for concern. Additionally, pregnant women have increased odds of developing DVT due to hormones, changes in blood flow and consistency, reduced movement, and weight of the developing baby.

Remaining active and maintaining a healthy diet will decrease your chances of developing DVT.