Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins, most often in the leg. While less common in some regions, the number of DVT cases is increasing in places like Singapore. These clots can be painful and lead to serious health issues, but recognizing the symptoms and risk factors is key to preventing complications.

What is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) ?

DVT occurs when blood thickens and clumps together, forming a clot in a deep vein, most commonly in the legs. The greatest danger is if a piece of the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs. This is called a pulmonary embolism (PE), a life-threatening condition that can block an artery in the lungs. Together, DVT and PE are known as venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Several factors can increase your risk of developing a DVT:

  • Inactivity: Sitting or lying down for long periods—whether due to injury, illness, or long-distance travel—slows blood flow in the legs.
  • Vein Damage: Injury, surgery, or inflammation (phlebitis) can damage the veins and increase the risk of clotting.
  • Medical Conditions: Certain illnesses like heart disease, cancer, inflammatory conditions, and blood clotting disorders can make you more susceptible.
  • Hormones: Pregnancy, the combined contraceptive pill, and HRT (due to estrogen) can all increase blood clotting.
  • Lifestyle: Being overweight, smoking, and dehydration can raise your risk.

Age: People over 60 are at a higher risk.

Not everyone with a DVT will have symptoms, but it’s important to be aware of the common signs:

  • Pain: A heavy ache in the calf is typical. This pain may get worse when you flex your foot upward.
  • Swelling: The affected leg will usually be swollen. If both legs are swollen, it’s more likely caused by something else.
  • Skin Changes: The skin on your lower leg may appear red and feel warm to the touch.

If the clot travels to your lungs and causes a pulmonary embolism, symptoms become much more severe and require immediate medical attention. These include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, and collapse.

If a doctor suspects you have a DVT, they will use specialized tests to confirm the diagnosis:

  • D-dimer blood test: This test measures fragments of blood clots in your system. A high level suggests a clot may be present.
  • Ultrasound scan: An ultrasound can visually detect a blood clot and check for reduced or blocked blood flow in the vein.
  • Venogram: In cases of uncertainty, a venogram may be used. This X-ray test involves injecting a special dye to see if it can flow freely through your leg veins.

The primary goal of DVT treatment is to stop the clot from growing and breaking free.

  • Anticoagulant medication: You’ll typically receive an injection of an anticoagulant (blood thinner) to prevent the clot from getting larger.
  • Compression stockings: Wearing these stockings can help reduce pain and swelling. They also help prevent long-term problems like ulcers and post-thrombotic syndrome, a condition that can cause lasting tissue damage in your lower legs. It’s often recommended to wear them for up to two years after a DVT.

Leg elevation: Raising your affected leg can also help reduce swelling.

Making a few lifestyle changes can significantly lower your risk of DVT:

  • Stay active: Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking are all excellent preventative measures.
  • Take precautions during travel: If you’re on a long flight, car, or train ride, remember to stay hydrated, do leg stretches, take short walks, and consider wearing compression stockings, especially if you have a higher risk.
  • Pre- and post-surgery care: Your healthcare team will take steps to protect you from DVT during and after medical procedures. This might include stopping certain medications, giving you anticoagulants, or having you use compression stockings.

Dr. Tan Featured in the News

Dr. Tan perform EVLT procedure Channel Newsasia 2009

Dr. John Tan featured in MediaCorp Channel 8
(早安您好)

Dr. John Tan featured in Channel NewsAsia Primetime Morning

Dr. John Tan featured in MediaCorp Channel 8

Dr. Tan Featured in The Straits Times

Dr. Tan is the first in Singapore to perform Radiofrequency Ablation for varicose veins.

Dr. Tan is the first in Singapore to perform Venaseal (Superglue) closure of varicose veins.