Potential Complications of DVT
Many people choose to see a vein specialist when they dislike the look of their spider veins or varicose veins. However, not all vein problems are visible, and some can severely impact your health. Deep vein thrombosis, also known as DVT, can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort and occurs when a clot begins to form in a deep vein, usually in the lower leg or thigh. Have you been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in Houston? If so, then it’s important to know the facts about this condition. Read on to learn about potential complications that are associated with DVT.
Pulmonary Embolism
Your doctor will tell you that the most concerning complication related to deep vein thrombosis is a pulmonary embolism. This problem occurs when a blood clot travels from one part of the body and reaches a blood vessel in a lung, where it blocks the flow of blood. Because pulmonary embolisms can be fatal, it is critical to be vigilant of the symptoms of this condition if you have been diagnosed with DVT and to seek out medical attention right away at the first signs of a pulmonary embolism. Signs and symptoms that can indicate a pulmonary embolism include:
- Chest discomfort that worsens when you cough or take a deep breath
- Sudden and unexplained shortness of breath
- Coughing up blood
- Having a rapid pulse
- Fainting or feeling dizzy or lightheaded
Postphlebitic Syndrome
A common complication that can develop after deep vein thrombosis is known as postphlebitic or postthrombotic syndrome. These are both terms used describe the set of symptoms that a patient may experience after suffering from DVT. These symptoms can include leg pain, skin sores, skin discoloration, and edema, or swelling of the legs. Postphlebitic syndrome results from the damage that was caused by the DVT blood clot, which reduces the flow of blood in the affected area. It is possible for postphlebitic syndrome to occur several years after a case of DVT.