Deep Vein Thrombosis Treatment in Phoenix, Mesa and Payson

Deep Vein Thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein usually in the leg or thigh. It is essential to recognize the signs of DVT since the clot can break away and become lodged in the lungs. What may follow is PE, or a Pulmonary Embolism, which can be life-threatening.

If you suspect that you are suffering from deep vein thrombosis, it is important that you schedule an appointment with the highly trained vascular surgeons in Phoenix, Mesa, and Payson at Western Vascular Institute. Western Vascular Institute’s three conveniently located vein and vascular clinics in Arizona house the most advanced & innovative surgery centers & diagnostic imaging capabilities for our valued patients. We will answer any questions that you may have and help discover the best treatment plan for you and your lifestyle. For more information, call (480) 668-5000 to schedule an appointment with one of our surgeons, at one of our vein and vascular centers in Payson, Mesa or Phoenix, Arizona.

What Are the Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis?

DVT can be a serious condition, as the clot can break off and travel to the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of DVT, as they can occur without warning signs. Some of the common symptoms of DVT include:

• swelling and pain in the affected leg
• redness and warmth along the vein where the clot is found

What Are the Causes of Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Coagulation of blood is an important process that helps to prevent excessive bleeding during injury. However, in the absence of injury, when the blood is not flowing properly or if it pools in the veins the platelets in the blood that help with coagulation can stick together and cause it to clot.

• Inactivity, such as during a long flight or drive
• Damage to a vein
• Cancer or other diseases that cause your blood to clot more easily
• Medications
• Hormones

What Are the Risk Factors of Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing DVT. Here are some of the most common risk factors:

• Age
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Family history of DVT
• Having a catheter placed in a vein
• Deep vein injury
• Smoking

How is Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosed?

Your vascular surgeon will ask questions about your symptoms and medical history as well as performing a thorough physical examination.

A Duplex ultrasound is used to check the flow of blood in the area of the perceived clot.

A Venograph can also be done by injecting a contrast dye into the vein under x-ray to see where the dye is allowed to pass through. The X-ray will show a mapping of your veins and show the area where the contrast dye was unable to pass through. Although DVT can generally be diagnosed by duplex ultrasound, venography is another option Western Vascular Institute has available to confirm the diagnosis.

How Do You Treat Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Most often Deep Vein Thrombosis, or DVT, can be treated by a medication known as blood thinners or anticoagulants. These medications help prevent the blood from clotting and over time reduce the size and consistency of the clot.

Maintain good overall health including a healthy diet and staying physically active will help reduce the risk of DVT. It is likewise important to maintain a healthy weight and make sure to follow up with your vascular surgeon to discuss the possibility of long-term blood thinner medications.