Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is blood clot blocking the veins taking blood back to the heart. It usually occurs in the lower leg or the arm or neck.

Some factors that increases the risk of DVT are

Long haul flights

After an operation

Prolonged immobilisation of a limb like Plaster of Paris

Some other disease that affects the blood thickness

The common symptoms are swelling, pains and redness in the affected limb. A scan is required as soon as possible to diagnose DVT, if confirmed, the DVT needs treatment with a blood thinning medication between 6months and 2 years.

The older drug warfarin has been replaced by newer and less dangerous ones like rivaroxaban.

Contact Crystalife or a doctor if you suspects leg swelling and pains that you cannot explain.