If you start to notice thick and ropelike veins developing across your legs, you may be showing signs of deep vein thrombosis, also known as DVT. This condition occurs when blood clots form deep within our leg veins. Unlike spider veins which are a cosmetic issue, DVT can be extremely dangerous and needs to be treated immediately. Here are the warning signs of deep vein thrombosis:
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Common Symptoms of DVT
As mentioned, DVT can manifest visually as thick and twisted veins popping up from under your skin. DVT primarily impacts our legs due to the larger veins found here and pressure placed on them. Common symptoms of DVT outside of the physical appearance will include pain in the calf area. This feeling is mostly experienced as tenderness, cramping, and even soreness. Impacted areas will feel warm to the touch. If you are having these feelings in your leg while seeing large protruding veins, you may be experiencing deep vein thrombosis.
Why It’s Important to Treat
It is critical to treat your DVT as quickly as possible. Blood clots in our deep veins can present a lethal danger to our body. There are only 300,000 to 500,000 reported cases of DVT each year. While it may not represent a large portion of vein disease, it can lead to greater threats. Specifically, DVT can lead to a pulmonary embolism, a blood clot that breaks away free from the vein and travels up the bloodstream. The blood clot will eventually reach your lungs and can result in death. It is better to be safe and seek treatment immediately.
Preventing DVT
If you are being cautious, you can help prevent the risk of DVT through a few ways. First, the biggest risk factor for DVT is smoking. Cut back on smoking or stop altogether to prevent further risk of DVT. Long periods of sitting and lying down can also cause your legs to be susceptible to vein disease, including DVT. Finally, following a regular regimen of diet and exercise will help keep unneeded pressure off your veins.
Seek Treatment Today for DVT
It is critical to seek treatment for DVT as soon as you notice the symptoms. The Skin and Vein Center provides a free consultation to show you which treatment options are best for you. Let the trusted staff at the Skin and Vein Center lead the way to healthier veins!