There is a condition anybody can get. The condition is called Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT. It is a medical condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the leg. This can cause pain, swelling, and redness in the affected area.
The big problem is that if a blood clot breaks lose, it can travel through the bloodstream and cause a pulmonary embolism (PE), which is a potentially life-threatening condition. PE occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery in the lungs, reducing the amount of oxygen that can be absorbed into the bloodstream. The scary part of Pulmonary Embolism is that it can kill a person in a very short time.
DVT can occur in anyone, but it is more common in people who are inactive for long periods, such as those who are bedridden, has recently undergone surgery, or are traveling for long periods of time. Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions that affect blood clotting.
The symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis?
As with anything with us humans, not everyone will get all these symptoms but there are some common symptoms people will often experience.
- Leg swelling
- Leg pain, cramping, or soreness that often starts in the calf
- Change in skin color on the leg — such as red or purple, depending on the color of your skin
- A feeling of warmth on the affected leg
- There are times that part of the appendage is actually colder than normal due to the decrease in blood flow.
What causes Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Again with the fact that we have humans involved so the factors that can cause DVT to vary as much as the symptoms Yet again doctors and other experts have. determined some key factors that can increase the chances of a person getting deep vein Thrombosis.
Immobility
Prolonged immobility, such as during long flights, bed rest, or sitting for long periods, can slow the blood flow in the legs, making clots more likely to form. The veins in your body actually have valves in them to keep blood from back flowing. Then our muscles also are used to help push blood back up to our heart. So that is why walking is helpful for improving your circulatory system. The Contracting of your muscles pushes blood up your legs.
So when you are sitting still as on an airplane ride or even a car your circulation can slow down. This allows the blood to collect behind the valves and this is where the blood clots form. So it is good if you sit for an extended amount of time and then find ways to work your legs. Flex your feet and clench your thighs and calves at different times. If you are able to stand at regular times and stretch.
Injury or trauma
When there is an injury our body actuall sends more blodo to the affected area as a means to help combat any infection that may be trying to get a foothold but also to wash foreign matter out of the body. Yet when you have a deep injury or trauma you may get a blood clot that forms.
Surgery
Surgery, especially operations that involve the pelvis, abdomen, or legs, can increase the risk of DVT. This is becuase of the surgery causing trauma to the area that has the operation performed on.
Hormones
Hormone therapy or birth control pills can increase the risk of blood clots. As always our bodys hormones dont just affect one organ but they affect all the parts of the body that comes in contact with blood.
Pregnancy
The pressure exerted by the uterus during pregnancy can slow down blood flow in the veins of the legs, making clots more likely to form.
Cancer
Cancer and its treatments can increase the risk of DVT.
Obesity
Being overweight or obese increases the risk of DVT.
Genetics
Some people have an inherited tendency to develop more blood clots than others.
Now what do you do if you think you may have it? The answer is short and simple. Go to your doctor if you cant then go seek medical attention where you can. It is beter to be told that you are alright than to find your self in danger of dying. If you are unsure double check.