6.7 Deep Vein Thrombosis Flashcards
A DVT is a…
Blood clot that forms in a deep vein in the body, usually lower leg
DVT usually occurs when…
A person has been inactive for a long period of time
Large clots can block the …
Flow of blood through the vein, either partially or completely
If a large blood clot forms there is a risk that a piece of the clot will break away, this is called an…
Embolus
Sometimes the embolus can block a blood vessel in the lungs, this is called a…
Pulmonary embolism
If a pulmonary embolism forms, the person will develop…
Shortness of breath, coughing or chest pain. If the clot is quite large it can be life-threatening
Another risk is post-thrombotic syndrome this is when…
The blood clot damages the valves in the leg vein, valves no longer work properly
Symptoms of DVT are:
Swelling in the calf
Pain in the calf that becomes noticeable or worse when the person starts to walk
Leg warmth and redness
Can treat DVT with an anticoagulant, a drug that prevents blood clotting…
Heparin is often given (works immediately)
Warfarin - stops blood clotting, works more slowlyj
These drugs do not dissolve the blood clot - they simply stop more blood clots from forming.
Clot-busting drugs are used if clot considered dangerous: thrombolytic drugs and are mostly enzymes - streptokinase
Risk factors for DVT are:
- People over the age of 40
- Past history of DVT
- Family history of DVT or genetic factors that make their blood more likely to clot
- Pregnancy or recent baby
- Overweight
- Recent surgery
- Immobility (long-haul flight)
- Contraceptive pill
- Hormone replacement therapy
Preventing DVT:
- Move around at intervals
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid drinking alcohol
- Wear ‘flight socks’ during the flight
