Complication of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Complication of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Primary Complication

1.Pulmonary embolism

-Artery in the lungs is blocked by thrombus (usually from the legs)

-At least 10% of patients with DVT hv PE

-Can be fatal

-Sign and symptoms of pulmonary embolism include: unexplained dyspnea, angina (get worse when patient take a deep breath or cough), lightheaded/dizzy, and cough out blood

-Complication of PE includes: palpitation, heart failure, and pulmonary hypertension

2.Post-phlebitic syndrome

-Aka post-thrombotic condition

-2/3 patients will have this.

-A collection of signs and symptoms, including: edema, leg pain, hyperpigmentation, skin ulcer, varicose vein, PE

-Caused by damage to the veins, or a valve in the vein from the blood clot

-It reduces blood flow in the affected area

Other DVT Complications:

-less common

-renal vein thrombosis

-blood clot in the heart, leading to myocardial infarction

-stroke

References:

http://www.webmd.com/dvt/deep-vein-thrombosis-complications