Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
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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