March is National DVT Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, often in the legs, and can be life-threatening if the clot travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.
DVT can result from factors that slow blood flow, such as:
- Surgery or injury to a vein.
- Blood clotting disorders.
- Prolonged immobility, like after surgery or a long trip.
While DVT may not always result in symptoms, common signs include:
- Pain or cramping in one leg (usually calf or thigh).
- Swelling, warmth, and redness in the leg.
- Swollen, tender veins.
Certain situations can increase the risk of DVT, such as:
- Being bedridden or recovering from surgery.
- Long trips (over 3 hours) by car, plane, or train.
- Pregnancy or the first 6 weeks postpartum.
- Dehydration.
Keep Moving:
To prevent DVT, avoid staying in one position for too long. Stretch regularly and move your legs every 15–30 minutes, especially on long trips or after surgery.
Should you experience any of the abovementioned symptoms, please consult with your GP.
Sharado Parhboo, Paralegal Consultant at MDS, "This National DVT Awareness Month, stay informed and take steps to protect your health.
Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to DVT and taking small steps today can protect your tomorrow."
For further information regarding DVTs, please select the following link: Deep Vein Thrombosis awareness month
MDS is a specialist medical negligence law firm. We specialize in claims involving cancer, maternity, and cauda equina syndrome. Our expert solicitors represent clients all around England and Wales, and we are dedicated to helping people who have been injured by medical negligence.
Our solicitors have extensive experience of representing clients and their families whose lives have been affected by delays in diagnosis of DVT. Click here to read more about how we can help you, and here to read our clients’ stories.
If you are concerned about any care that you or a member of your family has received, please contact our experienced team on 0116 254 7456 or email: enquiries@moosaduke.com. You can also enquire online by clicking here.