Deep vein thrombosis or DVT is the condition that occurs when a blood clot known as a thrombus forms in the deep veins of the body. It most commonly occurs in the leg. This condition can become a serious life-threatening condition if the vein’s clots break away and travel through the blood to the lungs. Listed below are the common causes and signs of DVT.

Common causes and signs of DVT

• Causes
  Clots in the blood can be formed due to several factors. They usually form when the blood is not able to circulate or clot normally due to an injury to the vein, certain medications, limited movement, etc. Some of the risk factors or causal factors of DVT are as follows.
  • An inherited blood clotting disorder
    It is to be noted that an inherited blood clotting disorder on its own might not be the cause of DVT but if there are other risk factors also present, you could be more prone to developing DVT.
  • Prolonged bed rest
    An extended period of bed rest or inactivity, such as a long recovery time after a surgical procedure or paralysis, could result in DVT. When the legs, especially the calf muscles, do not contract, blood is not able to circulate properly. This results in clots. Similarly, remaining inactive for a long period, such as when flying or driving, could cause clot formation.
  • Health issues
    Certain health conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and cancer could result in clots. Heart failure could also increase your risk for developing DVT or pulmonary embolism, as there is limited heart and lung function.
  • Obesity and pregnancy
    Being overweight or obese increases the pressure on the legs and pelvis; this could result in DVT in the legs. Similarly, pregnant women with an inherited blood clotting disorder could be at risk of developing DVT.
  • Oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy
    Both these can increase blood clotting.
• Symptoms
  Some of the symptoms of DVT are as follows.
  • Pain in the leg
    This pain most often starts in the calf and feels like a cramp or as though the leg is sore.
  • Change in skin color
    The skin of the leg becomes red or discolored.
  • Warm sensation
    The affected leg feels warm.

It should be noted that the common causes and signs of DVT are not always obvious. DVT can also occur without any signs or symptoms. Therefore, you should seek immediate medical attention if you develop any of the following signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism: a complication of DVT.

• Chest pain or discomfort that gets worse when you breathe in deeply or when coughing
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Coughing up blood
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid pulse
• Fainting.

Being aware of the common causes and signs of DVT can not only be beneficial in seeking timely medical assistance, but you can also follow measures to prevent this condition from occurring.