What is a DVT?

DVT is the acronym for deep vein thrombosis. It means a blood clot in the vein. The symptoms may include leg pain or swelling but may occur without any symptoms.  DVT is a serious condition and needs to be treated immediately to avoid a life-threatening situation. The clot can break loose, travel through the blood and may end up in the lungs, called pulmonary embolism and eventually cause the person to have difficulty breathing. The clot can end up in any of the blood vessels of the heart causing blockage leading to a heart attack or death based on severity. The clot can also end up in the brain, blocking circulation, causing what is called a stroke.

Deep vein thrombosis can develop in people with certain medical conditions that affect how their blood clots. Deep vein thrombosis can also happen in prolonged immobility, such as after surgery or following an accident. This is also common in people who have been confined to a hospital or nursing home for an extended period of time.