Submitted by Drs. Bohn, Nielsen, Castillo, Benson and Wright, The Vein Specialists, LLC
Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is the formation of a blood clot inside a vein deep in the body and can be a lethal, although rare, complication of varicose veins. Nearly half of the occurrences of DVT do not have symptoms. When symptoms are present they include pain, swelling, discoloration and warmth in the leg.
If untreated, people with DVT are at risk for developing a pulmonary embolism in which a blood clot breaks away and travels to the lung, where it can be fatal. Approximately 60,000 people in the United States die from a pulmonary embolism each year. The risk for a pulmonary embolism doubles for each 10 years after the age of 60.
March is National Deep Vein Thrombosis Awareness Month. One of the best ways to avoid DVT and pulmonary embolism is to practice a healthy lifestyle and maintain healthy circulation. These simple tips will help your venous health:
- Get 30 minutes of exercise daily
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid long periods of sitting or standing
- Travelers should wear loose, comfortable clothing, take frequent breaks and move their legs whenever possible.
- Studies have shown that wearing medical grade compression stockings while traveling can significantly reduce your risk for DVT. These stockings help increase the circulation in your legs.
- Stay hydrated. Drink lots of water and avoid caffeine or alcohol because both are dehydrating.
- Do not leave your varicose veins untreated.
For more information about DVT Awareness Month, go to www.clotconnect.org.
Call now to get your legs evaluated by The VEIN Specialists, LLC at 309-862-4000 or visit their website at ILVEINS.com to learn more about varicose vein disease. The Vein Specialists are located in Bloomington at 3302 Gerig Dr. with additional locations in Eureka, Streator and Peru.