Thrombosis

Synonyms: deep vein thrombosis, blood clots in legs

Deep vein thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot in a blood vessel located within a body part, usually the legs.

Treatment

Your doctor will prescribe a medication to thin your blood (called anticoagulants). This will prevent clots from forming or longer than the former become greater. These drugs can not dissolve existing clots.

Heparin is generally the first drug administered.

• If heparin is administered intravenously (IV), you must stay in the hospital.

• newer forms of heparin may be administered by injection once or twice per day. You may not need to be hospitalized, or have to stay a short time, if prescribed this newer form of heparin.

A drug called Warfarin (Coumadin) is usually initiated with heparin.

• intake warfarin is orally. It takes a few days to full effect.

• Heparin should not be stopped until warfarin have been given the correct dosage for at least 2 days.

• You probably take warfarin for at least 3 months. Some people should take it for the rest of their lives, depending on the risk of having another clot.

When you are taking warfarin, you're more prone to bleeding, even in activities with which you are familiar.

Change how you take warfarin, taking certain medications and eating certain foods can change the way warfarin works in your body. If this occurs, you may be more likely to have clotting or bleeding problems. Never discontinue medication or change the dose without consulting your doctor.

If you are taking warfarin:

• Take your medicine as prescribed by your doctor

• Consult your doctor to learn what to do if you forget a dose

• You need to do blood tests often to make sure you are taking the right dose

The doctor will prescribe to use compression stockings on both legs or one. Compression stockings improve blood flow in the legs and reduce the risk of blood clots. It is important to use them every day.

In rare cases, surgery may be needed if medicines do not work. Surgery may involve:

• Placement of a filter body in greater vein to prevent blood clots from moving into the lungs

• Removal of a large blood clot from the vein or injection of thrombolytic medications

Prevention

Use compression stockings if your doctor has prescribed. They improve blood flow in your legs and reduce the risk of blood clots.

Doctors may prescribe blood thinners to help prevent DVT in people at high risk or those who are being subjected to a high-risk surgery.

Move your legs often during long plane trips or car or in other situations in which you are sitting or lying down for long periods can help prevent DVT. People at high risk for blood clots may need heparin injections when they are on a flight that lasts more than 4 hours.

Do not smoke. If you smoke, quit. Women who are taking birth control pills or estrogen must stop smoking.