The term venous thromboembolism (VTE) refers to a blood clot that forms in a vein, generally in the legs, but can break loose and travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Here are its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods.
Venous thromboembolism occurs when blood clots form in the veins due to a combination of factors such as blood stasis, vessel wall injury, and hypercoagulability (Virchow's triad).
An extended period of immobility, such as on a long flight or after surgery, can increase the risk of blood clots.
Surgical procedures, particularly those involving the lower extremities and abdomen, can disrupt normal blood flow and increase the risk of blood clots.
Individuals with cancer, heart failure, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain genetic or acquired blood disorders are predisposed to venous thromboembolism.
Due to changes in blood clotting factors, hormonal contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, and pregnancy can increase the risk of blood clots.
Thrombosis in the deep veins (DVT):
Leg swelling, pain, tenderness, or warmth.
Skin that is red or discolored over the affected area.
Veins visible just beneath the surface of the skin that are enlarged.
Embolism of the lungs (PE):
Shortness of breath that occurs suddenly.
With deep breathing or coughing, chest pain may worsen.
Lightheadedness, rapid heart rate, or fainting.
Hemoptysis (coughing up blood).
A medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests are typically used to diagnose venous thromboembolism:
A medical history includes information about risk factors, symptoms, and recent medical events (such as surgery, trauma, or prolonged immobility).
Examine the body for signs of deep vein thrombosis (tenderness, swelling, warmth) and pulmonary embolism (rapid heart rate, low blood oxygen levels).
A blood test to measure D-dimer levels, a substance produced when a blood clot dissolves. Elevated levels may indicate a blood clot, but further testing is necessary to confirm this.
A blood clot can be detected using imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI.
The purpose of venography is to obtain detailed images of blood flow and to detect any blockages in a vein by injecting contrast dye into it.
A venous thromboembolism treatment aims to reduce the risk of complications, prevent further blood clot formation, and dissolve existing clots:
To prevent and dissolve blood clots, blood thinners (anticoagulants) such as heparin, warfarin, and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are commonly prescribed.
A thrombolytic medication can be administered intravenously in cases of severe or life-threatening blood clots to dissolve them rapidly.
It is possible to prevent swelling and reduce the risk of recurrent blood clots by wearing compression stockings or using intermittent pneumatic compression devices.
In rare cases where anticoagulant therapy is contraindicated or ineffective, an inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter may be implanted to prevent blood clots from reaching the lungs.
Certain cases of severe or recurrent venous thromboembolism may require surgical procedures such as thrombectomy (removal of blood clots) or venous stenting.
Getting out of bed and moving around as soon as possible after surgery or prolonged immobility helps prevent blood stasis and reduces blood clot risk.
During periods of immobility or for individuals at high risk of blood clots, compression stockings can promote blood flow in the legs.
Prophylactic anticoagulant therapy may be prescribed for individuals at high risk of blood clots (such as those with a history of VTE or certain medical conditions).
By maintaining adequate hydration, blood cannot become too thick and sluggish, reducing the risk of blood clots.
Regular physical activity and movement, especially during long flights or extended periods of sitting, reduce the risk of blood clots.
