Breaking down blood clots

What you need to know about Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism

What are DVT and PE?^1-5

When a clot forms in the deep veins of the body—most often in the calf or thigh of one leg—it is called a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). If the clot becomes large, a piece may break away and travel to the lungs, blocking blood flow. This is known as Pulmonary Embolism (PE).

Together, DVT and PE are often referred to as Venous Thromboembolism (VTE).

Signs and Symptoms

It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the two conditions.

DVT may cause^1-3:

• Soreness or cramp-like pain in one leg
• Swelling
• Skin that feels warm to the touch and looks red or discolored

PE may cause^1,3-5:

• Chest pain that worsens when coughing or taking a deep breath
• Sudden shortness of breath
• Coughing up blood
• Fast heartbeat
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
• Fever, sweating, or clammy skin

Because PE is a complication of DVT, you may also experience DVT symptoms.

What are the Risk Factors?^1-6

VTE can develop when normal blood flow slows or is blocked, allowing clots to form. This may happen due to injury, surgery, or even certain medications that increase blood clotting.1

You may be at higher risk for DVT and PE if you:

• Are confined to bed rest or long periods of immobility
• Are pregnant or have recently given birth
• Have a personal or family history of blood clots
• Smoke
• Are overweight or obese
• Are over 60 years old
• Take certain medications (e.g., contraceptive pills, some cancer treatments)
• Have certain health conditions (e.g., heart failure, cancer, kidney disease, or inflammatory bowel disease)

Remember, DVT and PE are serious conditions, but the good news is that effective treatments are available. Consult your doctor regarding lifestyle changes, management plans, and treatment options.

REFERENCES

¹Mayo Clinic. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/deep-vein-thrombosis/symptoms-causes/ syc-20352557?p=1.

²NHS. DVT (deep vein thrombosis). October 2019. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/deep-vein-thrombosis-dvt/.

³Cleveland Clinic. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT). March 2022. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16911-deep-vein-thrombosis-dvt. 4. Mayo Clinic. Pulmonary embolism. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pulmonary-embolism/symptoms-causes/syc-20354647?p=1.

⁴NHS. Pulmonary embo- lism. April 2020. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pulmonary-embolism/.

⁵Cleveland Clinic. Pulmonary embolism: who is at risk. July 2019. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15802-pulmonary-embolism-who-is-at-risk Accessed Date: June 2024