Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

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Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that has formed in a large blood vessel. It may completely or partially block the blood flow in that vein.

There are several risk factors for DVT. These include:

  • Hereditary (genetic) factors
  • Certain illnesses
  • Cancer
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Inactivity
  • Obesity
  • Estrogen containing birth control
  • Central line catheters
  • Congenital heart disease

Signs and Symptoms

Early signs of blood clot in an arm or leg include these:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Feels warm
  • Red, pale or bluish skin color

Diagnosis and Treatment

A DVT will be diagnosed by a physical examination, medical history and a Doppler sonogram (ultrasound).

In most cases a DVT will be treated with an anticoagulation medicine (blood thinner) such as Heparin, Lovenox or Warfarin.

Your child will follow up with a hematologist (doctor who specializes in blood health).

Precautions for Children on Anticoagulation Therapy

  • Your child should not play contact sports while on blood-thinning medicine.
  • Your child will need to avoid aspirin products and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines such as Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) and Naproxen (Aleve). 

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) (PDF)

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