If blood moves too slowly between your veins, it can cause a buildup or clump of blood cells called a clot. When a blood clot forms in a vein deep within your body, a doctor calls it “deep vein thrombosis (DVT)”.
DVT almost always occur in the lower-leg, thigh or pelvis. Usually, far away from your heart, but can often occur in other parts of the body as well. A DVT can lead to major health problems, and in some cases can become fatal. If you think you have signs of DVT, see your doctor right away.
Symptoms of DVT include:
- Arm or leg swelling that comes without pain or warning
- Pain or soreness upon standing or walking
- Warmth in area of pain
- Enlarged veins
- Skin that looks red or blue
If a blood clot breaks up and moves throughout the body, it can get stuck in a blood vessel in your lung. That can also be fatal. Doctors often call these pulmonary embolisms or PE. Individuals often do not know they have DVT until this occurs.
Signs of PE include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pains that worsen when taking in a deep breath
- Coughing up blood
- Increased heart rate
Deep Vein Thrombosis Medications
Blood thinners are usually the first thing your doctor will prescribe. They are often known as anticoagulants and they stop the clot from growing or breaking off. The medications also stop new clots from forming, but they do not actually thin your blood or dissolve an existing clot.
Blood thinners often prescribed include: (), (), , (), Betrixaban (BEVYXXA), (), and ().
You should always consult your doctor if you are experiencing worsening symptoms or other side effects while taking these medications. Consult your pharmacist before taking the drugs, to see if they counteract with any other medication you may be taking. It is important to take them as prescribed as DVT can become life-threatening.
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