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What is deep venous thrombosis
(DVT)?
This is serious condition affecting
coagulation of blood in the deep veins of the calf. There are some
predisposing factors which my lead to clotting. These include ;
- Reduced blood flow
- Post-operative
- Elderly
- Bed rest
- Direct injury to the calf
- Increased clotting tendency, e.g.
oral contraception/HRT, cancer, pregnancy, smoking
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What are the symptoms?
Pain, tenderness and swelling of the
affected leg.
Diagnosis
This is done using ultrasound or a
venogram. A venogram is where dye is injected into the veins of the foot
and X-rays are taken to detect for a shadow.
Anti-coagulant drugs are given to
prevent thrombosis