March is National DVT awareness month. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein. Preventive care for DVT includes the use of compression stockings and compression socks.
You may be surprised to hear that Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) affects thousands of Americans every year, though many are unclear about exactly what it is or how serious it can be. March serves as DVT Awareness Month and this is an excellent opportunity for us to share more information about this fairly common condition, when to discuss DVT with your doctor, and how compression stockings can help.
DVT describes the affliction of a blood clot formed in a deep vein (one that is not close to the skin), typically in the leg or pelvis, though occasionally clots are found in the arm. DVT results when three specific factors occur: reduced or stagnant blood flow in the deep veins, injury to the blood vessel wall, and hypercoagulability of the blood (meaning it is more likely to clot). The clot(s) can cause partially or fully blocked blood circulation in the affected limbs, and some symptoms of DVT are limb swelling, redness or discoloration, and/or pain. Not everyone experiences symptoms though. If DVT is untreated by a doctor, it could lead to serious complications, such as pulmonary embolism (PE). PE occurs when a clot detaches from its location and travels into the lungs, where it can prevent blood flow to or from a pulmonary artery – a very serious condition.
If you have any risk factors associated with DVT, your doctor may recommend the use of compression stockings, compression socks, or even thigh high compression stockings, which are specially made to help improve blood flow in the leg or legs. Compression stockings and compression socks are constructed to be tighter at the feet and become looser towards the top. Again, you’ll want to consult your doctor to find out if you should be using compression stockings, compression socks, or thigh high compression stockings, depending on your personal needs.
If you have any questions about your health, please consult your doctor.