What is Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Do you suspect that you may have a blood clot? This is medically called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is caused by your blood not moving properly through your veins. A buildup of blood cells, or a blood clot, can commonly take place in the lower leg, thigh, or pelvis. From there, the blood travels to the lungs and heart. This can cause serious health complications if not found and treated. Whether you are male or female, you are at risk of developing DVT. This is especially true if you are not physically active, overweight, have a sedentary job or lifestyle, have a blood-clotting disorder and/or vascular stenosis, are prone to blood clots, or have had a traumatic injury in the past. Also, if you have had a blood clot before, you are likely to form one again.
Our board-certified general surgeon and medical director, Dr. Matthew Lynch, can diagnose and treat DVT in his office in Peoria, AZ. He has state-of-the-art technologies and the experience to make recommendations and provide treatments at Lynch Vein & Aesthetics. If left untreated, DVT can cause significant health complications. Having a blood clot can be life-threatening, too. It is best to have your DVT symptoms (tenderness, swelling, localized heat, pain, or redness) checked out. You can contact our office for an appointment with Dr. Lynch at your earliest convenience.
What are the symptoms?
Patients near our Peoria, AZ office who have deep vein thrombosis often experience a number of overlapping symptoms. At Lynch Vein & Aesthetics, we encourage you to contact our office for deep vein thrombosis treatment if you have some of the following symptoms:
- Swelling that is typically confined to one leg instead of both
- Consistent throbbing or cramping in one leg
- Veins that become hard when swollen
- Darkening of the skin around the site of pain
- Skin at swelling site is warm to the touch
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Why is DVT Treatment Important?
Deep vein thrombosis can cause many health complications when left untreated. The most serious complication occurs when the clot breaks away and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. Blood clots are life-threatening and produce sudden, unexplained symptoms in an arm or leg, such as tenderness, swelling, discomfort, or redness in the affected area. Patients should also look out for vein discoloration where the suspected clot has developed.
Dr. Lynch has the experience and resources to properly diagnose and treat DVT so you can avoid these risks. Do not wait to seek treatment if you think you may have a blood clot. Our staff is here to help you get the care you need.
DVT Treatment Techniques
To determine the best treatment for your symptoms, Dr. Lynch will meet with you privately in one of our minor treatment rooms. He will perform a medical exam and ask you questions about your health history (including the medications you are currently taking). Together, you will agree upon a plan and the next steps in your treatment. Generally, Dr. Lynch's initial recommendation is to prevent the blood clot from dislodging and moving toward your lungs and heart. He will do this by prescribing anticoagulation medications, or blood thinners. He may also ask you to wear compression hose.
Anticoagulation medication
Blood thinners prevent the blood from thickening up to form a clot. Some patients may not qualify for anticoagulants because of another medical condition. Also, some medications may not be effective or appropriate when taken with a blood thinner. Dr. Lynch will discuss options with you if this is the case. If you have large clots, it may be necessary to go forward with other options.
Compression stockings
These garments can be purchased over-the-counter and can be extremely helpful in restricting your blood from pooling in unwanted areas. You will wear these tight stockings as directed by Dr. Lynch.
Inferior vena cava (IVC) filter
When compression stockings and blood-thinning medications are not sufficient or possible for your treatment, Dr. Lynch may recommend an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter. Using ultrasound-guided technology, the vein can be accessed through the skin (via needle puncture). This device placement is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require a traditional "open" surgery. By inserting the IVC (a small, cone-shaped filter) into the concerning vein, it can trap the blood clot for removal instead of going into your major body organs.
After Your DVT Treatments
You will need to keep your appointments with Dr. Lynch following your initial appointment. He will manage and document the progress of your DVT in order to make decisions on how to continue your treatment until the threat of a severe blood clot has passed. It is also important to live a healthy lifestyle to help prevent additional DVT developments in the future, such as being active, maintaining a healthy weight, going to follow-up appointments and physicals as directed, and making sure to check in with your doctor when you feel it is necessary.
Deep vein thrombosis FAQs
Can deep vein thrombosis be prevented?
Deep vein thrombosis can happen to adults of any age and background. However, patients can make some lifestyle changes to minimize their risk for deep vein thrombosis. This includes maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, maintaining a healthy weight, giving up smoking, and eating a balanced diet.
What are the risk factors for deep vein thrombosis?
Age, family history, and certain medical conditions or procedures can raise your risk for deep vein thrombosis. Sitting for long periods of time can also restrict blood flow and increase your likelihood of blood clots. Make sure to take frequent walks if you spend an extended amount of time off your feet.
What is the outlook for people with deep vein thrombosis?
Patients with symptoms of deep vein thrombosis should seek treatment as early as possible to increase their likelihood of success. Dr. Lynch can perform a comprehensive assessment for deep vein thrombosis and let you know what to expect during and after treatment.
Let's Treat and Prevent DVT
Dr. Lynch can diagnose and treat your vein-related health and aesthetic concerns at his practice in Peoria, AZ. We can provide you with the procedures you may need for DVT. At Lynch Vein & Aesthetics, we are here to provide you with the care you deserve when you need treatment for DVT. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Lynch, call us or fill out an online form for more information. Your DVT may qualify for coverage under your medical insurance. We do accept most major insurance plans and financing through CareCredit (if needed). Let's get started today.
