Please join us for a Q&A session on deep vein thrombosis in honor of DVT Awareness Month
An interview with Dr. Rickey, leading vein specialist at Novant Health Vein Specialists
1) What is DVT, or deep vein thrombosis?
A DVT results from the formation of blood clots in the calf or thigh.
2) Why is it important for people to be aware of this condition?
The Surgeon General reports DVT affects between 350,000 and 600,000 Americans each year and is responsible for at least 100,000 deaths. The Venous Disease Coalition reports up to one million Americans are affected by DVT each year. DVT blood clots cause more deaths each year than AIDS and breast cancer combined.
3) What are some of the risk factors and warning signs of DVT?
Smoking and immobility (like during air travel) are among the most common risk factors. Pregnancy and obesity can also cause DVT. In some cases, these blood clots can travel to the heart and lungs causing severe complications, including death. 50% of DVTs can occur with little or no symptoms. Warning signs include pain, swelling or redness of the legs, or unexplained cough, chest pain or shortness of breath.
4) How often and at what age should someone be screened for DVT?
Depending on risk factors, anyone can be screened for venous disease and risk for DVT. In general, the risk goes up with age, but young patients with other risk factors should also be screened. Common risk factors include varicose veins, obesity, surgery, cancer therapy, immobility, oral contraceptive use and smoking. Anyone with a history of DVT or a family history of DVT or pulmonary embolism is also at risk and should be screened. If you have a negative screening, rescreening should be done if any of your risk factors change over time.
5) Why is leg health so important?
Taking care of your legs will allow you to spend more quality time with your family, no matter how old you are. Being aware of your overall health is always important, and everyone should take preventative steps to remain healthy rather than simply treating problems as they arise.
6) Do you offer consultation services?
Yes. Please call us today at 336-276-0776 if you think you have a DVT or have had a DVT in the past. We will perform an ultrasound and physical examination to assess your condition. We also offer monthly screenings at: Novant Health Vein Specialists
Tuesdays: March 3, April 7, May 5, June 2, July 7, August 4, September 8, October 6, November 3, December 1
Thursdays: March 19, April 30, May 21, June 18, July 23, August 20, September 24, October 22, November 19, December 17
7) What treatment options are available?
Customarily, blood thinners may be required to treat DVT when present. Other patients found to be at high risk for DVT may require therapy tailored towards prevention. Only after being properly evaluated can an appropriate treatment plan be prescribed.
Novant Health Vein Specialists are conveniently located at 2827 Lyndhurst Avenue, Suite 206 in Winston-Salem and 1710 Kernersville Medical Parkway, Suite 202 in Kernersville. Call or go online to schedule your FREE SCREENING. Improve your life today!
