Deep Vein Thrombosis Essay

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) will happen when a thrombus (blood clot) forms in the deep veins in your body. The most common place of occurrence is the legs but can occur in other areas of the body. DVT may cause leg pain and/or swelling, but can occur without any signs or symptoms. Other signs and symptoms include; shortness of breath, rapid pulse, sweating, sharp chest pain, coughing up blood, and fainting.(mayo clinic)

In the United States alone 600,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. It has been referred to as "Economy Class Syndrome" due to the occurrence on long flights. One in every 100 patients who develop DVT die from pulmonary embolism (PE). If PE can be diagnosed and treatment started the mortality rate can be reduced from 30% to less than 10%.

Certain medical conditions that affect blood clotting, sitting for long periods of time, can also cause deep vein thrombosis, other risks include; pregnancy, after a C-section, obesity, smoking, heart failure, previous dvt or embolism, increasing age especially over 60, cancer, kidney problems, certain medications, or hormone replacements. Less common risks are catheter in arm vein, insertion of a pacemaker or a defibrillator , cancer near vein. Surgeries that cause risk include; hip, pelvis, knee, brain, spine and any trauma especially if the blood vessel becomes injured can increase an individuals risk of developing a clot. Any surgery that reduces blood