What Are the Treatments for Blood Clot in Leg?
Blood clots that form in the legs are known medically as deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Risk factors for developing a DVT include immobility (prolonged travel or hospitalization, for example), major surgery (especially hip or knee replacements), cancer, advanced age, pregnancy and estrogen therapy. DVTs warrant prompt medical treatment because they can lead to a pumonary emboli (PE), which can be rapidly fatal. This happens when the blood clot breaks loose from the leg vein and travels through the blood vessels to the lungs, where it becomes lodged. If symptoms of a DVT are experienced, such as pain, swelling, or warmth in the leg, seek medical care so that a diagnosis can be made. If a DVT is found or suspected, anticoagulants–drugs that prevent blood from clotting–are the primary therapy.
