Deep vein issues often go unnoticed until they cause more serious symptoms, but early attention and expert care can make a difference in how they affect your health and daily life. Deep vein thrombosis is one of the more serious vascular conditions we address, and it requires careful evaluation and treatment to help reduce risks like leg swelling, discomfort, and possible long-term complications.

The Vein Care Center is a leading vascular care provider serving Lima and Celina, OH, as well as the greater Auglaize County area. Our patients rely on us for individualized care and a holistic approach that addresses all of their vascular care needs. We are the fourth practice and third private practice in the state of Ohio to be accredited as a Vein Center. These accreditations assure our patients that the care they receive meets the highest professional standards for vascular treatment. Contact us today to see how we can help you with deep vein thrombosis and other vein conditions.

What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a blood clot that typically forms in the deep veins of the lower leg or calf. A DVT blocks blood flow and may cause leg pain or swelling. At times, however, there are no symptoms at all. While deep venous thrombosis itself is not usually life-threatening, if the clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs, it can cause a potentially fatal condition called a pulmonary embolism.

How Is Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosed? 

Many patients come to us for a deep vein thrombosis evaluation after a referral from their primary care physician or following a recent surgery, long flight, or period of inactivity. If we suspect DVT based on your risk factors or physical findings, we’ll start with a noninvasive duplex ultrasound. This test uses sound waves to visualize the blood flow in your deep veins and detect any clots that may be present. We may also recommend a D-dimer blood test, which measures a substance released when a blood clot breaks down. Elevated levels can support a DVT diagnosis, especially when combined with imaging results. Both tests are fast and effective tools to help us identify or rule out a clot.

What Causes Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis can develop when something disrupts normal blood flow or makes it easier for clots to form. While some causes are related to lifestyle or medical history, others may be linked to inherited traits. Common causes include:

  • Slow or sluggish blood flow through a major vein, which occurs during long periods of immobility, such as after surgery or extended travel.
  • A tendency for a person’s blood to clot quickly, which is often hereditary
  • Irritation/inflammation of the lining surface of the vein due to injury, infection, or certain medical treatments that damage the vein walls

What Are the Risk Factors for DVT? 

There are many factors that can contribute to the development of deep vein thrombosis. The more risk factors you have, the greater your chances of developing DVT:

  • Prolonged sitting or restricted mobility, such as long-distance travel
  • Age over 40
  • Surgery (especially orthopedic) or major injury
  • Excessive weight
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Smoking
  • Varicose veins
  • Cancer
  • High estrogen states, such as pregnancy or the use of birth control pills
  • Prolonged bed rest or immobility

What Are the Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis can be difficult to detect, as around half of all cases cause no noticeable symptoms. This is why regular monitoring and prompt evaluation of risk factors are so important. When DVT symptoms are present, they often include aching or cramping pain in the affected leg, particularly in the calf or thigh. You may notice swelling that doesn’t go down with rest or elevation, or you may have skin that feels warm or appears red or discolored. The discomfort is usually localized to one leg, and symptoms may worsen when standing or walking. Any combination of these deep venous thrombosis symptoms should be evaluated right away to rule out a clot. Complications from DVT may include chronic pain, swelling, discoloration, and open ulcers.

Treatment Options for Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Early intervention is important when treating deep vein thrombosis since prompt care can help prevent the clot from breaking off and causing complications. Treatment focuses on managing the clot, improving blood flow, and lowering the risk of recurrence.

01 /
Anticoagulant Medications

Often called blood thinners, these medications help prevent existing clots from enlarging and reduce the chance of new ones forming.

02 /
Thrombolytic Therapy

In more severe cases, clot-dissolving medications may be administered to quickly break down a large clot, especially if it’s causing symptoms or poses a threat to the lungs.

03 /
Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filter

For patients who can’t take blood thinners, a small filter may be placed in the vein to catch clots before they travel to the lungs.

04 /
Thrombectomy

This is a procedure used to physically remove a blood clot from a deep vein, typically in cases where the clot is large or causing severe symptoms. It’s usually considered when other treatments haven’t worked or when quick clot removal is necessary to restore proper blood flow.

05 /
Compression Stockings

Specially fitted stockings help reduce swelling and discomfort, and they can lower the risk of developing long-term complications like post-thrombotic syndrome.

06 /
Lifestyle Changes

Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing conditions like high blood pressure can support vein health and reduce future clotting risks.

Deep Vein Thrombosis Treatment at the Vein Care Center

Deep venous thrombosis can be a serious condition, but with the right care, it can be managed to reduce long-term complications. Dr. Manu B. Aggarwal, a board-certified family physician who is venous and lymphatic medicine-certified and aesthetic laser-certified, provides expert evaluation and treatment for every patient. If you suspect DVT or have concerns about your vascular health, we encourage you to contact us or call us at (419) 227-4472. We’re here to help you take the next step toward better vein health.

The information about deep vein thrombosis (DVT) treatment was reviewed by Dr. Manu B. Aggarwal. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using our contact form below.

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Aesthetic Care Center, our specialized aesthetic treatment facility led by Dr. Aggarwal, combines advanced anti-aging technologies with personalized treatment plans to address your unique skin concerns. Our comprehensive suite of medical-grade aesthetic services includes the latest innovations in skin rejuvenation and body contouring, such as Botox, RF microneedling and truSculpt, all delivered with the same expertise and attention to detail that defines our vein care practice. Begin your transformation with a complimentary skin care screening, where we’ll create a customized plan to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

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