Deep Vein Thrombosis
Blood Clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is one of the most life-threatening conditions we podiatrists may encounter.
A DVT is a blood clot that forms in a deeper vein in the body, usually the lower legs.
Symptoms
You may not experience symptoms at all. However, if you've:
- Recently had a surgery,
- Been immobilized or
- Been in an accident, you are at increased risk for developing a DVT.
DVT typically presents as swelling in one leg and pain in your calf.
Patients typically say it feels really sore or described a cramp in the calf that won't resolve.
Risks
DVT's are serious medical conditions and treatment should be sought IMMEDIATELY.
If the clot in the deep vein dislodges, it can travel to your lung causing a PE (Pulmonary Embolism).
Approximately 15% of all DVT's progress into a PE. Death rate among untreated PE's is roughly 1 in 4.
Please seek attention right away if you are suspicious of a DVT, it may in fact just save your life.