If one wants to understand the causes of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), then it is essential to understand the disease first. Blood circulation is necessary for the normal functioning of the body. A healthy blood flow is vital as it supplies nutrition and oxygen to the different parts of the body. However, if the blood moves too slowly through the capillaries, then blood clots start to appear. When these clots form deep in the veins of the body, it results in deep vein thrombosis.
This condition mainly occurs in the lower limbs and pelvis of the affected person. Details on this condition include the following:
1. Symptoms
The study of the different symptoms and signs of this disease can help doctors to find the major causes. However, the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis can differ in different patients. But the basic features of the disease remain the same. Many people report having experienced prolonged pain in their limbs due to this condition. Patients also experience discoloration of the skin on their legs along with a feeling of heat in the lower limbs.
2. Causes of deep vein thrombosis
There can be various causes of deep vein thrombosis such as surgery, accidents, injuries, etc. The causes of deep vein thrombosis include severe damage to the blood vessel and changes in the normal blood flow. Few of the fundamental risk factors of this condition are:
Prolonged bed rest: When the limbs and muscles are in a resting position for a long time, the calf muscles fail to contract properly. As a result, the risk of blood clots increases. This can also happen due to paralysis of the body.
- Family history: Thrombosis is a genetic disorder, which one can inherit from their parents. If a person has a family history of this disease, then they are at an increased risk.
- Surgery or injury: Any injury or shock to the veins and capillaries can result in this disease.
- Birth control pills: Intake of birth control pills or oral contraceptives can increase blood clotting in the body.
- Pregnancy: Pregnancy tends to amplify the pressure in the blood capillaries in the limbs and pelvic region.
- Obesity: The pressure in the blood capillaries also increases due to the accumulation of fat in those specified regions of the body.
- Smoking: The risk of DVT increases with smoking.
- Cancer: Many different kinds of tumors can cause an accumulation of substances, which increases the blood clotting ability of the body.
- Heart failure: People with heart problems and lung disorders have an increased risk of DVT.
- Bowel disease: Inflammatory bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease increase the risk of DVT in patients.
Once the right causes of deep vein thrombosis are identified, it simplifies the treatment strategies for both the doctor and the patient. One can quickly lower the chances of DVT by adopting a few lifestyle changes and healthy habits. Always refer to a doctor if you notice any of the symptoms of this disease. This would help in getting the right treatment for the illness.
