Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a serious condition that can develop quickly. In addition to other symptoms, DVT often causes pain. If you are experiencing pain from DVT, you may wonder how long this pain will last and if there is anything you can do to resolve it. Below is some information to help you deal with this painful condition.
What is DVT?
DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one of your deeper veins. This condition is most common in the legs. The clot blocks the flow of blood, which leads to uncomfortable symptoms for the patient. If you have a DVT, you may notice redness on the skin near the clot, as well as pain and swelling.
This condition can affect anyone, but it is more common among people over the age of 60. You are more likely to develop DVT if you are taking hormone therapy, have a family history of DVT, have given birth recently, have had surgery recently or have certain chronic conditions.
How long will the pain last?
The pain from DVT will last at least as long as the blood clot remains untreated. After the blood clot resolves, the blood will begin to flow normally and DVT symptoms will usually fade. However, some patients develop a condition known as the post-phlebitic syndrome, which causes continued pain, swelling and changes in skin color even after the clot is gone.
How is DVT treated?
Some DVTs may resolve on their own. Unfortunately, in other cases, these clots may break off and travel to the lungs or heart, which can lead to serious complications. For this reason, seeking treatment is highly recommended to any patient with the symptoms of DVT.
To confirm the presence of deep vein thrombosis, the doctor may use ultrasound and/or blood tests. Once the presence of the clot is confirmed, the doctor will recommend treatment based on its position and severity. For mild clots, patients may rest, elevate the affected area and wear compression stockings to boost circulation. In cases where a clot is more severe or isn’t dissolving on its own with conservative treatments, the doctor may recommend placing a filter in the vein to prevent the clot from going to the heart or lungs. Some large blood clots must be removed surgically.
Contact us
If you think you may be experiencing the symptoms of DVT, please contact Siragusa Vein & Laser today to make an appointment.
Getting Your Insurance To Cover Your Vein Treatment
Many of our patients are very surprised to learn that Insurance often covers the treatment of symptomatic spider veins. The insurance specialists at Siragusa Vein and Laser have compiled a list of ways to get your insurance provider to cover your treatment.
Take The First Step
If you are ready to stop hiding your legs and dealing with the embarrassment of spider veins, let Dr. Siragusa and his team get you back to loving your legs and living your life.