Thrombosis in a deep vein or superficial vein could be considered the worst possible complication of untreated varicose veins.  Most varicose veins from the groin and sometimes all the way to the foot are associated with the Saphena, which is the main superficial vein of the leg. 

The saphenous vein joins with the femoral vein deep in the groin.  Consequently, thrombosis of the Saphena is called Superficial Vein Thrombosis versus Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in the femoral vein and its branches.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition that is under diagnosed and preventable.  It occurs when a blood clot forms in a large vein. These clots usually develop in the lower leg, thigh, or pelvis, but can also occur in the arm.

Compression Stockings can help with Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis is a potentially life threatening condition, which if it is not treated aggressively can result in a stroke or death from a pulmonary embolism (PE).  Before travelling long distances special precautions should be taken.  It is imperative for individuals with varicose veins to wear compression stockings.

It is important to be informed about DVT because it can happen to anybody.  On the upside, DVT is preventable and treatable if diagnosed correctly and early.

The most common symptoms of deep vein thrombosis are

• Pain
• Swelling
• Tenderness and redness of the skin.

Unfortunately 50% of all DVT patients have no symptoms at all.  Deep vein thrombosis can become a chronic illness; whereby approximately 30% of patients who had a DVT will go on to have another episode.

Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lungs) are

• Problems with breathing
• Faster heart beat than normal
• Chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing
• Coughing up blood
• Very low blood pressure
• Light headedness or passing out

Seek immediate medical help if you have any of the above symptoms.

Unfortunately other conditions such as pneumonia or heart attack have similar symptoms as DVT and PE.  Therefore tests are needed to determine a diagnosis of either condition.

Treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

• Blood thinner medications (anticoagulants)
• Wearing graduated compression stockings to relieve pain and swelling
• Surgical removal of a blood clot in severe cases

Treatment of pulmonary embolism (PE)

Emergency hospitalization is necessary to treat a pulmonary embolism.  In life-threatening conditions of a PE, medications that are capable of dissolving a clot (thrombolytics) and medicines that prevent new clots from forming (anticoagulants) can be utilized.

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