![]() Resources used to produce this information sheet. Helps the body’s own blood clot dissolving system to reduce the size of the blood clot and even absorb the clot completely.īlood thinning medication may not always be necessary and will depend on the size of the clot, the symptoms associated with the clot and the risks of blood thinning medicationįor related information: Read the Fact Sheet:.Reduces the risk of the blood clot growing.The treatment of a clot involves thinning the blood, also called anticoagulation. Treatment - What can be done about a below knee DVT? Fortunately PTS is uncommon in clots that are limited to the veins of the calf. Sometimes this can cause long term swelling of the leg which can be uncomfortable and lead to skin changes including ulcers (this is called Post Thrombotic Syndrome or PTS. (See information on Above Knee DVT).ģThe third problem of blood clots in the calf is that once a vein is blocked with a clot, other veins will need to take over the role of the blocked vein. Only 1 in 5 blood below knee DVTs will grow (extend) along the veins, but once a blood clot reaches the veins in the thigh (“Above knee DVT) the risk of the blood clot traveling to the lungs is high. If a blood clot is big enough it can block the blood flow to the lungs causing problems with breathing. Blood clots can even break off and travel to the lungs. It is also important to keep your leg up (elevated) as much as possible.ĢThe second problem is that blood clots can sometimes grow along the veins of the calf and enter the veins of the thigh. (See information sheet on Graduated Compression Stockings). These stockings are very tight at the ankle and less tight in the calf and so they help the blood return “uphill” to the heart. The best way to decrease swelling is to use tight (graduated compression) stockings. ![]() A number of medications can be used to treat the pain and it is important to limit the swelling as much as possible. What are the main problems with a below knee DVT? There are three main problems with a blood clot in the veins of the calf.ġThe first problem is that blood clots in the calf are often painful and cause lots of swelling. ![]() ![]() Sometimes blood tests are also used to help in the detection of blood clots. An ultrasound is painless and does have any major side affects. A clot can be detected because of the decreased blood flow in the veins. Ultrasound machines use sound waves to detect blood flow in veins and arteries. How is a blood clot detected?Ī blood clot is usually detected by an ultrasound. Sometimes the area around a blood clot can feel warmer than the surrounding tissues. Pain and swelling are usually the main symptoms of a below knee DVT. What are the symptoms of a below knee DVT?
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