Deep Vein Thrombosis Doctors in NYC
What is deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is when a blood clot develops in any of your deep veins. Deep veins are veins that are located deep within your muscles. Deep vein thrombosis typically occurs in the legs, but it may also occur in upper areas of the body, such as the arms or neck.
What causes deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when your blood no longer effectively circulates or clots. Ineffective blood circulation or clotting can be due to various factors. Causes of deep vein thrombosis may include:
- Genetic disorders that make you prone to blood-clotting
- Sitting or resting for extended durations of time
- Trauma or injury to a vein
- Certain surgeries
- Pregnancy
- Certain birth control medications
- Being overweight
- Smoking
- Cancer
- Heart failure
- Certain bowel diseases
- Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism run in your family
- Age
What are the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis?
For some, deep vein thrombosis may be asymptomatic, meaning you may not display or have any symptoms. However, for some people, certain symptoms may occur. Common signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis include:
- Inflammation or swelling in your leg, foot, or ankle
- A cramping or pulling pain in your leg, usually starting in the calf and working its way up
- Affected area of skin feels warmer than its surrounding areas
- Discoloration of the affected skin
How is deep vein thrombosis diagnosed?
To help determine if you have deep vein thrombosis, your doctor will begin by asking you to describe any symptoms that you have been experiencing. Your doctor will then perform a physical, looking for signs of swelling, skin discoloration, or areas of skin that may make you feel pain or discomfort when touched. If your doctor believes you have a blood clot in your leg, additional testing may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis. Additional testing may include:
- Ultrasound
- Blood testing
- Venography
- CT or MRI scans
Can deep vein thrombosis lead to complications if left untreated?
If left untreated, deep vein thrombosis may lead to serious and sometimes fatal complications, such as pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot from your leg, or another body part, travels to your lungs and clogs any of your pulmonary arteries. Pulmonary arteries carry blood from your heart to your lungs. If a pulmonary artery is blocked it can lead to other conditions or become life-threatening. Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism may include:
- Shortness of breath that appears without warning
- Chest pain that intensifies with deep breaths or coughing
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Fainting
- A quick heartbeat
- Coughing or spitting up blood
How is deep vein thrombosis treated?
The main goal of deep vein thrombosis treatment is to ensure that the clot does not grow in size or travel to the lungs. Treatment options for DVT may include:
- Blood thinners
- Clot busters
- Filters
- Compression stockings
Speak with your doctor to learn more about the available treatment options for deep vein thrombosis.
Our heart and vein doctors at Heart Vein NYC have over 20 years of experience providing the New York City area with comprehensive,
