The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Deep Vein Thrombosis

The formation of a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg, which can predispose to pulmonary embolism.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) in one of the deep veins of the leg or pelvis. The clot slows blood flow and can damage the vein wall.

The most dangerous complication of DVT is pulmonary embolism, which occurs when the clot breaks free and travels to the lungs. This is a life-threatening medical emergency.

Prolonged immobility (long travel, surgery, bed rest), pregnancy, and conditions that increase blood clotting increase the risk of DVT.

Symptoms

Swelling in the calf or thigh, usually on one side
Pain and tenderness in the affected leg
Redness and warmth of the skin
A feeling of heaviness in the leg
Prominence of the superficial veins
In some cases, no symptoms at all
If the clot breaks off: sudden shortness of breath and chest pain (pulmonary embolism)

Risk Factors

Prolonged immobility or bed rest
Major surgery (especially orthopedic or gynecologic)
Cancer and chemotherapy
Pregnancy and the postpartum period
Use of oral contraceptives
Inherited thrombophilia (clotting disorders)
Obesity and smoking

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Seek care immediately if your leg suddenly becomes swollen, red, and painful
  • Go to the emergency department if shortness of breath or chest pain joins the leg symptoms
  • If you notice leg swelling after a period of immobility
  • For recurring symptoms in people with a history of DVT
  • For prophylactic treatment planning in people with clotting disorders

Treatment Methods

01
Anticoagulant (blood-thinning) therapy: low-molecular-weight heparin, a direct oral anticoagulant, or warfarin
02
Compression stockings (to prevent post-thrombotic syndrome)
03
Leg elevation and early mobilization
04
Catheter-directed thrombolysis (in selected patients with extensive proximal DVT)
05
IVC filter (when anticoagulation is contraindicated)
06
Long-term thrombophilia work-up and prophylaxis planning

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kardiyoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Kardiyoloji

Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Coronary Artery Disease

Kardiyoloji

Narrowing of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack.

Heart Failure

Kardiyoloji

Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

Kardiyoloji

A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

Kardiyoloji

Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

Kardiyoloji

Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

Kardiyoloji

Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

Kardiyoloji

Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.