A Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in the vein. It is a dangerous condition, as the blood clots may flow through the vein and end up in the lungs, causing a PE (Pulmonary Embolism). Though it can happen in any part of the body, it mostly occurs in the lower leg or thigh. It is also quite difficult to catch, but some symptoms include:
2. A Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in the vein. It is a dangerous
condition, as the blood clots may flow through the vein and end up in the lungs, causing
a PE (Pulmonary Embolism). Though it can happen in any part of the body, it mostly
occurs in the lower leg or thigh. It is also quite difficult to catch, but some symptoms
include:
•Swelling of the affected area
•Warm skin in the affected area
•Red or discolored skin
According to the CDC, an estimated 60,000-100,000 Americans die of DVT/PE every
year, and it can also cause long-term complications for the survivors.
3. Smoking Increases the Risk of DVT
DVT can happen to anyone, no matter the age. Smokers, however, increase the risk of
DVT and PE. Special cells that prevent normal blood from clotting line blood vessels.
However, the chemicals in cigarettes make it more likely for platelets to stick together as
smoking is known to damage these cells. Studies showed that smokers (past and present)
had a 17% increased risk. It goes up by 10.2% every ten cigarettes a day. Smoking is
already linked to several health problems. It’s no surprise that researchers found a link
between smoking and a higher risk of DVT/PE.
Ways to Prevent and Cure DVT
Blood clots can happen out of nowhere. However, there are ways to lower the risk, as well
as ways to cure DVT before the clot can get into the lungs. Kicking the habit of smoking
lowers that risk. So does staying healthy.
4. Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/dvt/data.html
http://veniti.com/
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266180.php
Obesity is one of the risk factors of DVT, and so is sitting for long periods of time. For
those who have DVT, the following methods are ways to treat the condition:
•Medications – medications that anticoagulants that prevent existing clots from
getting bigger, or for more severe cases, medications that quickly breaks down
clots
•Filters – a filter inserted into a large vein to prevent clots that break loose from
sticking to the lungs
•Compression stockings – stockings to help reduce swelling and improve the flow
of blood to the heart