Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot develops in the deep venous system. Most commonly, the legs are affected. Vessels in the deep venous system are responsible for transporting the vast majority of your body’s blood to the heart for reoxygenation. Deep veins are so named because they are located deep within the body, surrounded by muscle.

1. A Complete Guide to Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious type of blood clot that forms in
the deep venous system. According to the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC), as many as 900,000 people are affected by DVT
each year in the United States.
“When left untreated, the effects of deep vein thrombosis can be dire,”
states Dr. Yan Kastnelson, Founder and CEO of one of the leading vein
treatment clinics in the U.S.
Estimates suggest that 60,000-100,000 Americans die each year of
DVT/pulmonary embolism, a dangerous complication. Among people
who have experienced DVT, one-third to one-half will have long-term
complications like leg pain, swelling, and discoloration. This is known as
post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS).
For all of these reasons, it is important to do everything you can to
prevent deep vein thrombosis. It is also crucial to know the signs and
symptoms of DVT, so you know when to seek potentially life-saving
medical treatment.
We want you to be aware that one cause of DVT is vein disease, also
known as venous insufficiency. This common health condition is also
the underlying cause of varicose and spider veins. Most commonly, the
legs, ankles, and feet are impacted.
Vein disease occurs when tiny, one-way valves in the veins are placed
under chronic strain and begin to malfunction. Since your veins are

2. responsible for transporting blood back to the heart, malfunctioning
valves can lead to your blood pooling in place, flowing backward, or
clotting.
Both genetics and lifestyle factors play roles in the development of vein
disease, deep vein thrombosis, and other venous conditions. A vein
specialist can work with you to identify your risk factors and implement
a treatment plan, when necessary. At USA Vein Clinics, we provide
minimally invasive, outpatient treatment for a range of venous
conditions, including varicose veins, spider veins, and deep vein
thrombosis.

3. What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot develops in the
deep venous system. Most commonly, the legs are affected. Vessels in
the deep venous system are responsible for transporting the vast
majority of your body’s blood to the heart for reoxygenation. Deep
veins are so named because they are located deep within the body,
surrounded by muscle. Superficial veins, on the other hand, are located
near the skin’s surface.
DVT can cause a range of painful symptoms, which we will discuss in
detail below. If you are considered at risk for DVT, it is important to be
on the lookout for symptoms.
Deep vein thrombosis is a dangerous health condition requiring
immediate medical care. If left untreated, DVT can lead to pulmonary
embolism, which is a life-threatening condition. A pulmonary embolism
occurs when a blood clot located in the deep vein system breaks off,
travels to the lungs, and blocks blood flow in the lungs.
Symptoms of pulmonary embolism include unexplained shortness of
breath, chest pain, and cough. If you have been diagnosed with vein
disease or DVT and experience symptoms of a pulmonary embolism,
call 911 or head directly to the nearest emergency room.
Signs of Deep Vein Thrombosis
To avoid potentially serious complications, we suggest being on the
lookout for deep vein thrombosis leg symptoms.
Some of the warning signs of deep vein thrombosis include:
 Leg pain: Deep vein thrombosis pain most often occurs in the calf.
Leg pain or discomfort can manifest as cramping, soreness, or

4. tenderness. You should be aware that pain can range from mild to
severe.
 Swelling: If you have DVT, you may notice deep vein thrombosis
swelling in one of your legs. Rarely, both legs are affected. We
recommend that unexplained, one-sided leg swelling should be
evaluated as soon as possible.
 Warmth: Sometimes, the presence of DVT can cause the
surrounding region to feel warm or hot to the touch when
compared to other areas of the body. For example, you may
notice that one leg feels warmer than the other.
 Redness or skin discoloration: Keep an eye out for skin changes
on the legs, especially when accompanied by pain, swelling, or
warmth. Any type of skin discoloration should be evaluated by a
medical professional.
These symptoms can also indicate other serious health issues, such as
infection. Symptoms of infection may include pain, swelling, warmth,
and redness or skin discoloration. To determine what is going on in
your individual situation, we recommend seeking urgent care.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Causes and Risk Factors
Yan Katsnelson, M.D, shares his expertise by saying “deep vein
thrombosis can be caused by anything that prevents blood in the deep
veins from circulating properly through the legs and ankles. For
instance, DVT can develop as a result of vein disease, an injury to a
vein, or a clotting disorder.”
Lifestyle factors can also play a significant role, such as:
 Age: If you are over age 60, you are more likely to develop DVT.
However, deep vein thrombosis in young adults, children, and
individuals of all ages can occur.

5.  Smoking: Individuals who smoke have an increased risk for a
range of health conditions, including vein disease and DVT.
Quitting smoking can significantly improve your health.
 Obesity: If you struggle to maintain a healthy Body Mass Index
(BMI), you should be aware of a connection between obesity and
deep vein thrombosis. Losing excess weight may help reduce your
overall risks.
There are many risk factors for DVT, and 50% of patients who suffer
from DVT have more than one risk factor. DVT risk factors include:
 Prior DVT: A history of either DVT or pulmonary embolism is a risk
factor for recurrent DVT.
 Cancer: There exists a clear connection between cancer and blood
clots. Certain types of cancers and some cancer treatments affect
your body’s clotting mechanisms.
 Pregnancy: Pregnancy is a well-known risk factor for deep vein
thrombosis. Pregnancy places additional strain on the veins,
which can lead to blood clots. The risk is greatest during the post-
partum period and for women who have had multiple
pregnancies.
 Genetics: A personal or family history of venous issues can place
you at increased risk for DVT.
 Prolonged periods of standing or sitting: If you have a job or
participate in an activity that requires long periods of standing or
sitting, you are more likely to experience DVT. To promote better
blood flow to your lower extremities, try to take frequent breaks
to move around. When stuck in place, it may be helpful to stretch
and massage your legs and feet.
 Other serious health conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure,
asthma, chronic kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, COVID-19,
and other medical conditions are known risk factors for DVT.

6.  Injury: DVT can develop in areas of injury, such as near a severe
bruise or broken bone. Even minor injuries can increase your risk.
 Birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy:
Contraceptives increase the risk of DVT, especially in younger
women, while most commonly post-menopausal women
undergoing hormone replacement therapy are at a higher risk for
DVT.
 Vein disease: As mentioned previously, vein disease is an
underlying risk factor for deep vein thrombosis. To help prevent
DVT, watch for symptoms of vein disease.
If you are concerned about DVT, we recommend consulting a vein
specialist. Our experts are available to evaluate symptoms of vein
disease and other venous issues.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosis
To diagnose deep vein thrombosis, your doctor may begin by asking
about your symptoms and risk factors, or performing a physical
examination. If DVT is suspected, they can order ultrasound imaging
and blood laboratory testing for confirmation.
Early intervention is key because DVT can lead to life-threatening
conditions. We recommend seeking diagnosis and treatment from our
expert vein specialists if you are experiencing symptoms, are at risk, or
have a past history of blood clots.
How to Treat Deep Vein Thrombosis
After you receive a DVT diagnosis, your doctor will make treatment
recommendations. Although your initial diagnosis may occur in an
emergency room due to the life-threatening risk for pulmonary
embolism, we generally advise consulting a vein specialist as soon as
possible to manage your continuing care.

7. At USA Vein Clinics, our vein specialists have a number of treatment
goals:
 To alleviate painful symptoms
 To prevent dangerous health complications
 To reduce your risk of additional venous issues
Your deep vein thrombosis treatment plan may include:
 Medications: You may be prescribed blood thinners and/or clot
busters, depending on the severity of your DVT. Be sure to take
medications exactly as prescribed.
 Compression socks: Deep vein thrombosis compression stockings
can prevent blood from pooling and clotting in your legs. These
garments can also alleviate painful leg swelling and other
symptoms. After a DVT diagnosis, daily use of compression socks
may be recommended for an extended period of time.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Prevention
There are a number of ways to reduce your risks of developing DVT.
Our vein specialists generally recommend the following:
 Maintain a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI)
 Exercise regularly
 Eat a healthy, well-rounded diet
 Quit smoking
 Avoid prolonged periods of standing or sitting
 Manage underlying health conditions
 Wear deep vein thrombosis compression stockings
 Consult a vein specialist
In some cases, a minimally invasive, outpatient treatment procedure
may be recommended to treat underlying vein disease and help
prevent DVT. At USA Vein Clinics, we specialize in performing:

8.  Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
 Varithena Varicose Vein Treatment
 ClariVein® Treatment
 Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
 VenaSeal Treatment™
Schedule a Consultation at USA Vein Clinics
To prevent potentially life-threatening complications from DVT, we
recommend early treatment of underlying vein disease. At USA Vein
Clinics, our vein specialists provide a range of non-surgical, outpatient
treatments that aim to improve circulation to the legs and throughout
the entire body.
Although treatment recommendations can vary from person to person,
all of our state-of-the-art medical procedures aim to seal off
malfunctioning veins and reroute blood flow to healthy, surrounding
ones. We have over 100 clinic locations nationwide, along with
convenient telemedicine options. No matter where you decide to book
your appointment, we can help you discover better vein health.
Reviewed By Dr. Yan Katsnelson
Dr. Yan Katsnelson is a philanthropist, business owner, and highly
skilled cardiac surgeon. He is the Founder and CEO of USA Vein Clinics,
which is part of USA Clinics Group, the parent company of USA Fibroid
Centers, USA Vascular Centers, and USA Oncology Centers with more
than 90 facilities nationwide. Dr. Yan has established himself as a strong
advocate for accessibility and affordability of the most advanced
medical care close to home, and his mission is to create a positive
experience for each patient with compassionate, personalized, and
expert care.