A DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clot that can form in the deep vessels of the body most commonly in the calf.

DVT occurs for a number of reasons

•    Blood disorders with a tendency to clot,
•    Increasing age,
•    Being overweight,
•    Dehydration,
•    Use of Hormone medications, such as oestrogen therapy and including the birth control pill,
•    Varicose veins,
•    Significant illness, especially heart failure,
•    Cancer,
•    Recent Pregnancy or childbirth,
•    Recent trauma or major surgery,
•    Smoking,
•    Inherited causes,

Signs and symptoms for a DVT include pain and tenderness in the calf, localised swelling in the lower limb and discomfort when bringing the foot and toes upwards.

If you suspect that you may have a DVT you should contact your treating doctor or present to your local hospital immediately. 

Occasionally a DVT may develop into a pulmonary embolism (PE). This occurs in a small percentage of DVT's where the clot moves from the deep veins into the heart or lungs. This causes chest pain, acute shortness of breath, rapid heart rate and occasionally death.

As with DVT, should you suspect that you have a PE, immediately contact your treating practitioner or present to your closest emergency department.

Diagnoses of DVT and PE are made with clinical assessment and where suspected, Ultrasound or VQ scan.

Treatment of DVT or PE, is through the taking of blood thinning medications until the clot has resolved.

To assist in preventing the formation of DVT, simple bed exercises can be performed (see video section for a downloadable example). Additionally compression stockings and medication are also used. discuss with your doctor for the best method to use for your admission.