To help spread the word about this silent and potentially life threatening condition the Vein Specialists of Illinois have created this Deep Vein Thrombosis Quiz. Please test your own knowledge, and then pass it along to your friends and family so they may benefit as well.
What is Deep Vein Thrombosis? When a clot forms in the deep veins of the body, it is called deep vein thrombosis, often referred to as DVT for short. DVT occurs most commonly in the leg; although it can occur anywhere in the body, such as the veins in the arm, abdomen, or around the brain.
False – It is true that as you age, the risk of DVT increases, but many patients are in their twenties and thirties.
False – Staying healthy, exercising, drinking lots of water, not smoking and wearing compression stockings when traveling long distances are a few ways that can help prevent DVT.
True – There are often no symptoms for DVT and it is only diagnosed if a complication occurs, such as a Pulmonary Embolism. Some typical symptoms that can occur, though, are pain, tenderness, redness, swelling and skin that is warm to the touch.
True – There are many reasons to feel pain or tightness in the leg, but not as many for swelling. If you experience swelling and/or pain and suspect DVT, go to the emergency room.
False – DVT usually develops in a deep vein below the knee in the calf, but can also occur in the thigh, pelvis, and arms.
True – You should move around as soon as possible after having been confined to a bed, such as after surgery, illness, or injury.
True – DVT and PE can become a chronic illness for some people. In addition, one-third of people who have a DVT will have long-term complications such as swelling, pain, discoloration, and in severe cases, a person can become disabled.
False – You have control over a number of things that can cause DVT, such as obesity, smoking, taking birth control pills, and dehydration. Staying healthy and active will help to decrease the chances of getting a DVT.
True – DVT is a serious and under-diagnosed medical condition. Many other people may have a chronic or repeat blood clot or may have leg problems from a previous DVT.
True – When sitting for long periods of time, or when traveling for more than four hours, you should get up and walk around. It also helps just to move your legs. You can exercise your legs while sitting by raising and lowering your toes while keeping your heels on the floor, and tightening and releasing your leg muscles.
True – Even healthy people with no medical problems have an increased risk of developing a DVT while traveling by air. To reduce this risk, you should wear compression socks while flying, stay hydrated, and do leg exercises such as toe raises periodically throughout your flight.
Did you find this Deep Vein Thrombosis Quiz Helpful? Do you have questions? You’re only a phone call away from the knowledgeable staff of Vein Specialists of Illinois. Drs. Sorenson and Lutz have over 30 years of combined experience in lessening the complications caused by varicose veins.
Contact Us or Call (847) 468-9900 today for your free phone consultation or to schedule a full comprehensive assessment.