Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a condition resulting from the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) inside a deep vein, commonly located in the calf or thigh. A DVT blood clot can be the result of a “sluggish” or disturbed blood flow that occurs due to a recent surgery, a prolonged hospital stay, or extended time spent off your feet due to illness or injury.
Once a blood clot forms, it can break off and travel to the lungs. Blood clots in the lungs can cause a Pulmonary Embolism (PE), an extremely serious and potentially fatal condition. In fact, as may as 300,000 people die from PE each year, more than AIDS and breast cancer combined. Lovenox® is a medication that can help reduce the risk of blood clots from forming in the first place. It can also help treat patients who have already been diagnosed with a DVT blood clot.
Certain health conditions and an extended period of time spent off your feet due to illness or hospital stay can put you at greater risk for developing a DVT blood clot. Some examples are:
As many as half of all blood clots occur without any symptoms, which is why it’s important to take steps to protect yourself. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
