Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

What is it?

DVT is a blood clot that develops in a deep vein, usually in the leg.

What are the symptoms?

Pain, swelling and tenderness in one of your legs (usually your calf), a heavy ache in the affected area, warm skin in the area of the clot, and red skin at the back of your leg below the knee. Anyone can develop DVT, but it’s more common over the age of 40.

Pulmonary embolism

If left untreated, about one in 10 people with a DVT will develop a pulmonary embolism where the clot, or part of it, travels to the lungs – a very serious condition which causes breathlessness, chest pain and sudden collapse.

When to see your GP?

If you have swelling and tenderness in your leg and you develop breathlessness and chest pain.

Diagnosing DVT

Your GP will advise you to have a blood test called a D-dimer test, which detects pieces of blood clot loose in your bloodstream.

An ultrasound scan or venogram (a contrast dye injected into your vein) can be also carried out to confirm DVT.

Treating DVT

Treatment involves taking anticoagulant medicines (heparin and warfarin), which reduce blood clotting and stop existing clots getting bigger.

Direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACS) may also be prescribed. They have been shown to be as effective as heparin and warfarin with fewer serious side effects. You’ll also need to wear compression stockings to help stop complications.

Preventing DVT

You should quit smoking, eat a healthy, balanced diet, take regular exercise and maintain a healthy weight.

There’s no evidence to suggest that taking aspirin reduces your risk of developing DVT. See your GP before long-distance travel if you’re at risk of getting a DVT, or if you’ve had a DVT in the past.