HEALTH ADVICE – DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein. DVT usually forms in a deep leg vein, and can cause immobility. A DVT can form across all, or part, of the width of your vein, which can block your blood flow either completely or partially. The symptoms include:

• swelling,
• pain,
• warm skin,
• tenderness, and
• redness, particularly at the back of your leg, below the knee.

If you have concerns about DVT and you would like to talk to us to ask advice, either come in and see us or telephone us on 01535 634727 or email us at info@crosshillspharmacy.co.uk

Causes

• Immobility (lack of movement) – After surgical procedures, or even long journeys by plane or car.
• Previous DVT and vein damage – Vasculitis and some forms of chemotherapy can damage the veins and increase the risk of DVT
• Medical and genetic conditions – People who have cancer and heart failure are at increased risk of getting DVT.
• Pregnancy - Pregnancy increases your chances of getting DVT, with approximately 1 in 1,000 pregnant women developing the condition.
• Contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) - if you take either a combined contraceptive pill, or HRT, your risk of getting DVT is slightly increased. There is no increased risk from the progestogen-only contraceptive pill.
• Obesity, smokers, those aged over 40 years old, are at increase risk of developing DVT

Treatment

Treating DVT will prevent the clot getting larger, breaking off and travelling to your lungs. It can also prevent DVTs from occurring in the future. Treatment for DVT involves using the anticoagulant medicines, heparin and warfarin. Other ways to help treat DVT include wearing compression stockings.

Prevention

DVT and Surgery - Some operations require an assessment of the risk of DVT following the surgery. If you are at high risk of developing a DVT you may be given daily injections of low molecular weight heparins and compression stockings to wear.

Smoking and diet - Giving up smoking and trying to lose weight through a sensible diet and regular exercise will help prevent you from getting a DVT.

Tips for travelling

If you are at risk of getting a DVT, or have had a DVT previously, you should consult your GP before long distance travel. Journeys of six hours or more, ensure that you:

• drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol
• avoid taking sleeping pills as it can cause immobility,
• perform simple leg exercises, such as regularly flexing your ankles. Most airlines provide information on suitable exercises to do during your flight,
• take occasional short walks, when in-flight advice suggests it is safe to do so,
• take advantage of stopovers to get off the plane and walk about,
• wear elastic compression stockings.