Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) can occur in anyone, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition. These risk factors include:
- Prolonged immobility: such as long periods of sitting or bed rest
- Recent surgery or trauma
- Pregnancy or childbirth
- Cancer or other medical conditions that affect blood clotting
- Hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills
- Age over 60 years
- Obesity
- Smoking
Diagnosis of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests. Physical examination may reveal swelling, redness, and tenderness in the affected area. Medical history may reveal risk factors for VTE. Diagnostic tests such as ultrasound, D-dimer blood test, and CT scan can confirm the presence of a blood clot and determine the extent of the clot.
The treatment of VTE depends on the severity of the condition and the risk of complications. In most cases, anticoagulant medications are prescribed to prevent the clot from growing and to prevent new clots from forming. These medications include heparin, warfarin, and newer oral anticoagulants such as dabigatran, apixaban, and rivaroxaban. In some cases, thrombolytic therapy may be used to dissolve the clot.
DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins in the body, usually in the leg or pelvis. The symptoms of DVT may include pain, swelling, and warmth in the affected area. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. If left untreated, the clot can break off and travel to the lungs, causing a PE.
PE occurs when a blood clot that has formed elsewhere in the body, usually in the legs or pelvis, breaks off and travels to the lungs. The symptoms of PE may include chest pain, shortness of breath, and rapid heart rate. If left untreated, PE can be life-threatening.
