What are DVTs?
Being in bed and not being able to move around can cause blood to pool in the legs and feet. This can sometimes cause blood clots (clumps of blood) inside a blood vessel, possibly slowing or stopping the flow of blood. Such a blood clot is also called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or venous thromboembolism (VTE).
A DVT can happen in as many as 54% of patients in the hospital after a brain injury. These clots can break off and move up the blood stream into the lungs (a pulmonary embolism or PE), the heart, or the brain, depriving those organs of the blood they need to function properly.
What do I look for if I suspect a blood clot?
- Swelling, one arm or one leg bigger than the other
- Redness, pain, hot or warm areas in the legs
- Lumpy or hard spot over or near a vein
- Low fever (99°F - 101°F) with no other signs of infection
What do I do if I think my loved one has a blood clot?
If you think a DVT is present, call the doctor right away. Have your loved one stay in bed and do not put pillows under their knees. Remove tight shoes and clothing, and do not rub the area or exercise the extremity. Make sure your loved one gets enough water to drink.
Your loved one's doctor may prescribe medication to make the blood thinner. This helps to break down the existing clots and prevents new ones from forming. They may also recommend special socks or boots to keep clots from forming. In some cases, the doctor may recommend a medical procedure to place a tiny filter or screen in one of the body's large veins, to keep the clot from moving up the blood stream.
Below are some resources that go into more detail about blood clots:
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
From Craig Hospital - What Is Venous Thromboembolism?
From the American Heart Association