DEEP VENOUS THROMBOSIS (DVT) IN DIABETES

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a form of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE). Deep vein thrombosis is the name for blood clots that develop in larger veins such as in the legs. In DVT specifically, blood clots (thrombosis) occur in the deep veins (not visible through the skin) of the body, most commonly in the legs. People with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are particularly vulnerable to developing recurrent DVT. In such condition one should always consult the best diabetic foot doctor in Vashi, Navi Mumbai.

Thrombosis means blood clot and deep veins are those that lie within the muscle and not visible through the skin. People with diabetes may have an increased risk of DVT, particularly those that have needed surgery or have other inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Most deep vein blood clots occur in the lower leg or thigh. They can also occur in other parts of the body.

Blood clots in the thighs are more likely to break off and cause PE than blood clots in the lower legs or other parts of the body. Blood clots can also form in veins closer to the skin’s surface–however, these clots won’t break off and cause PE.

Other Names for Deep Vein Thrombosis

Blood clot in the leg.
Thrombophlebitis.
Venous thrombosis.
Venous thromboembolism (VTE)

Causes Of Deep Veins Thrombosis (DVT):

Blood clots can form in your body’s deep veins if:

A vein’s inner lining is damaged. Injuries caused by physical, chemical, or biological factors can damage the veins. Such factors include surgery, serious injuries, inflammation, and immune responses.

Blood flow is sluggish or slow. Lack of motion can cause sluggish or slow blood flow. This may occur after surgery, if you’re ill and in bed for a long time, or if you’re traveling for a long time.

Your blood is thicker or more likely to clot than normal. Some inherited conditions (such as factor V Leiden) increase the risk of blood clotting. Hormone therapy or birth control pills also can increase the risk of clotting.

Being in hospital can increase the risk of DVT as movement may also be limited for long periods of time.
Any trauma to leg or fracture which leads to immobilisation is the most important cause of DVT.

Symptoms Of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):

Deep vein thrombosis may present no symptoms. Only about half of the people who have DVT have signs and symptoms. These signs and symptoms occur in the leg affected by the deep vein clot. They include:

Swelling of the leg, or along a vein in the leg.
Pain or tenderness in the leg, which you may feel only when standing or walking.
Increased warmth in the area of the leg that’s swollen or painful.
Red or discoloured skin on the leg.

DIAGNOSIS:

Your doctor will diagnose deep vein thrombosis (DVT) based on your medical history, a physical exam, and test results. He or she will identify your risk factors and rule out other causes of your symptoms.
Medical History

To learn about your medical history, your doctor may ask about:

Your overall health
Any prescription medicines you’re taking
Any recent surgeries or injuries you’ve had
Whether you’ve been treated for cancer

PHYSICAL EXAM

Your diabetic foot doctor in Nerul will check your legs for signs of DVT, such as swelling or redness. He or she also will check your blood pressure and your heart and lungs.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

Your doctor may recommend tests to find out whether you have DVT.

COMMON TESTS

The most common test for diagnosing deep vein blood clots is ultrasound. This test uses sound waves to create pictures of blood flowing through the arteries and veins in the affected leg.

Treatment Of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):

Doctors treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT) with medicines and other devices and therapies. The main goals of treating DVT are to:

Stop the blood clot from getting bigger
Prevent the blood clot from breaking off and moving to your lungs
Reduce your chance of having another blood clot

Treatment also includes wearing a compression stocking. The stocking is to be worn all day, each day for at least two years to help prevent future clotting developing. You will also be advised to keep your leg raised when resting as this can help the blood to flow from your leg.