Under the expert guidance of our Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, Dr. Mark Zuzga, our team of Vein Specialists & Vascular Experts are committed to delivering top-tier outpatient vascular & vein evaluation and treatment throughout the greater Tampa & West Florida surrounding areas. Should you find yourself dealing with leg pain, swelling, ulcers, discoloration, or the appearance of spider and varicose veins, we invite you to request a screening todayCan You Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis? Understanding if You Are at Risk is Half the Battle
What is DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)?
DVT is a condition where blood clots form in deep veins of the legs. Rarely this may happen in other areas of the body as well. Deep veins are located deep in the body, away from the surface of the skin.
Who is at Risk?
Though a DVT can happen to anyone, some history markers, conditions, and lifestyle choices can increase the risk. Having more than one factor further boosts your risk. Here is the checklist.
- Varicose veins
Trauma to an area - Recent Surgery
- Extended sedentary actives (bed rest, desk work)
- Cancer
- Chemotherapy
- A history of past DVT incidences
- Aging
- Pregnancy
- Post Birth (4 to 6 week period)
- Hormonal birth control
- Menopause
- Heart failure
Inflammatory bowel disease - Kidney disorders
- Excess weight
- Smoking
- Thrombophilia
How does a clot form?
While clotting is a normal and necessary process to stop bleeding if a cut or wound should occur, it can also take place inside a vein which is not healthy or normal. It can happen if:
- The lining of a vein is damaged
- The blood flow has been slowed
- There is a problem within the body making the blood clot
If a clot forms in a deep leg vein, blood flow in the vein slows causing that area of the vein to swell. Once a clot is formed should a chunk of a clot break free it could move through the circulatory system and land in the lungs (causing a pulmonary embolism), in the brain (causing a stroke), or in the heart (causing a heart attack). Blood clots are very serious and should never be ignored. If you feel you may be experiencing a DVT go immediately to the ER.
Following up with a Vein Specialist is vital as well. Dr. Mark Zuzga of The West Florida Vein Center in Tampa Bay – Safety Harbor, Florida would love to review your case and help you make the best health decisions moving forward. Give him a call to schedule at (727) 712-3233 or visit The West Florida Vein Center online to learn more at www.westfloridaveincenter.com.