Overview
Deep vein thrombosis, a silent and potentially lethal medical condition, represents a significant threat to global health. In South Africa alone, a startling statistic reveals that over 200,000 people suffer from DVT each year. This is not a distant, abstract danger; it's a very real challenge that we, as professionals and individuals, must confront with knowledge and proactive measures. DVT occurs when a blood clot, or thrombus, forms in one of the deep veins, most often in the leg, but it can also form in the arm. While the clot itself may not immediately pose a severe risk, its true danger lies in its mobility. If a piece of this clot breaks off, it can travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism (PE). This terrifying chain of events underscores the urgent need for awareness and decisive action.
Blood clot in leg vein
The formation of a blood clot in a deep leg vein can be a painful, debilitating experience. This clot, once formed, can obstruct blood flow, leading to a cascade of symptoms. The condition can manifest as swelling, tenderness, and a persistent cramping or soreness in the affected leg. The skin over the area may feel unusually warm to the touch and may take on a reddish or bluish discoloration. It’s important to note that these signs can sometimes be subtle or even absent, making DVT a particularly insidious and challenging diagnosis. For professionals, recognizing these symptoms is the first critical step toward an accurate and timely intervention.
Products & Services
A variety of products and services are available to help manage and prevent DVT. Compression stockings are a common and effective tool, applying pressure to the legs to help improve blood flow and prevent clots from forming. Doctors may also prescribe blood-thinning medications, known as anticoagulants, to reduce the risk of a clot growing or breaking free. Additionally, some invasive procedures, such as the placement of an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter, may be used in certain high-risk situations. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the best course of action.
Symptoms
DVT symptoms can vary widely, and in some cases, there may be no noticeable signs at all. When symptoms do appear, they often include swelling in the affected leg, ankle, or foot, which may be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness or aching. The leg may feel warm and tender to the touch, particularly in the calf. You may experience a deep, throbbing pain or a cramp-like sensation that doesn't go away. This discomfort can intensify when you're standing or walking. It’s crucial to be vigilant and not dismiss these symptoms, as they are your body's way of signaling a serious issue.
When to see a doctor
If you suspect DVT, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately. Any sudden, unexplained swelling or pain in a limb, particularly one accompanied by a feeling of warmth or changes in skin color, should be treated as an emergency. Don't hesitate or try to "wait it out." Your proactive response could be the difference between a successful treatment and a life-threatening complication.
Pulmonary embolism
The most severe complication of DVT is a pulmonary embolism (PE). This occurs when a portion of the blood clot detaches, travels through the bloodstream, and gets lodged in an artery in the lungs. A PE can be a true medical emergency, causing symptoms like sudden shortness of breath, chest pain that worsens with deep breaths, a rapid heartbeat, and even coughing up blood. A PE can lead to permanent damage to the lungs and heart, and if the clot is large, it can be fatal. This is precisely why early detection and treatment of DVT are so critically important.
Causes
DVT can be caused by anything that impedes blood flow or affects blood clotting. This includes damage to a vein's inner lining from surgery or trauma, inflammation of the vein, and conditions that lead to thick, slow-moving blood. A sedentary lifestyle or prolonged periods of immobility, such as during long flights or hospital stays, are also major contributors.
Risk factors
While DVT can affect anyone, a number of factors can increase your risk. Age, particularly being over 60, is a risk factor, though DVT can occur at any age. Other significant risk factors include prolonged periods of sitting or standing, major surgery or injury, and pregnancy. Certain medical conditions like cancer, heart failure, and inflammatory bowel disease can also heighten your risk. Furthermore, lifestyle choices such as being overweight, smoking, and using birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy can make you more susceptible.
Complications
Beyond the immediate threat of a pulmonary embolism, DVT can lead to long-term health issues. The most common is a condition called post-thrombotic syndrome, which can cause chronic leg pain, swelling, and skin ulcers. This occurs due to damage to the valves inside the affected vein, which impairs proper blood flow and leads to chronic discomfort and a decreased quality of life. Timely and effective treatment is essential to minimize the chances of developing this and other complications.
Prevention
The good news is that DVT is often preventable with some simple, actionable steps. If you have a sedentary job or are on a long flight, make sure to take breaks to stand and walk around. When you're sitting, try to move your legs and feet frequently. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying hydrated are all powerful preventative measures. If you are at a higher risk, your doctor may recommend compression stockings or even preventative anticoagulant medication, particularly before and after surgery.
Published 28th August 2025
References
Mayo Clinic Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/deep-vein-thrombosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352557
Cleveland Clinic Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16911-deep-vein-thrombosis-dvt
SAMA Journals Recent incidence of deep-vein thrombosis in surgical departments, 2015-2022: A systematic review - SAMA Journals Available at: https://samajournals.co.za/index.php/urhj/article/download/80/395/2761