Deep Vein Thrombosis

Question 1

Features

Answer 1

Swelling - usually one leg
Pain - aching, cramping, often starts in calf
Redness or discolouration
Warmth
Tenderness

Question 2

Epidemiology

Answer 2

1 in 1000
More common with increased age
Higher in western countries
Men - also women have higher risk during pregnancy

Question 3

Risks/ Cause

Answer 3

Prolonged immobility - bed rest, long flights
Surgery - involving legs or pelvis
Cancer - some can increase blood clotting
Obesity
Smoking
Pregnancy

Question 4

What is it

Answer 4

Formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the legs. Can cause serious complications if the clot dislodges and travels to the lunges causing a pulmonary embolism

Question 5

Presentation

Answer 5

Unilateral leg swelling
Calf or leg pain
Pitting edema - indentation remains when pressing on the swollen area
Red or discoloured skin
Pulmonary embolism symptoms - sudden chest pain, shortness of breath or coughing up blood

Question 6

Prognosis

Answer 6

Good - can be treated with anticoagulants
Life threatening - if clot travels to lungs
Can return if not managed properly

Question 7

Age

Answer 7

risk increases significantly 60+
Young adults - pregnancy, oral contraceptives