Puffy Legs are One of the First Signs of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Author: StrideCare Internal Team
Studies show that deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can affect up to 900,000 Americans every year and cause 60,000-100,000 deaths. If you’re suffering from DVT, you should make an appointment with us at StrideCare right away. Our team of board-certified physicians and surgeons has the expertise and experience to treat your DVT with superior care.
To help you understand if you have DVT, we want you to know more about the symptoms.
What are the Symptoms of DVT?
If one of your legs is swollen, that’s one of the first telltale signs you have DVT. You rarely experience puffiness in both of your legs at the same time as a result of DVT. Your leg swells because a blood clot has developed in your deep veins. If this happens to you, you should call our practice immediately so we can accurately diagnose your condition and prescribe the right treatment for you.
Other symptoms you might notice in your leg include:
- Warm to the touch
- Redness in the affected area
- Pain
- Throbbing or cramping
If you have any of these symptoms, you need to see us for an evaluation because DVT can lead to life-threatening conditions.
Why is DVT Dangerous?
DVT can possibly lead to one of your blood clots breaking off, traveling to your lungs, and potentially getting stuck. If a blockage occurs, the results might be fatal. This condition is called a pulmonary embolism. That’s why it’s imperative to come in for an appointment if you show any signs of DVT.
Can DVT be Avoided?
We have recommendations to keep your risk for DVT low, including:
- Stay active
- Exercise or walk regularly
- Don’t sit for long periods of time
- Wear compression socks when flying on a plane
- Keep your weight within a healthy range
When you meet with our providers for an exam, we talk to you about your medical history and ask about medications you’re taking, such as birth control or hormone replacement, because they can affect your vein health.
Depending on your test results, we might recommend blood thinners or other medications. If you have DVT, we give you individualized care for your condition.
What Happens at My DVT Appointment?
We’re a highly-skilled, compassionate team that uses the most minimally invasive procedures to determine your diagnosis. We use state-of-the-art technology and equipment to look at your underlying vascular and vein issues, and we can also detect any early signs that show a potential threat to your health.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of concern, especially if one of your legs looks puffy or swollen, reach out to our team of professionals now. If you’re not able to leave your location, we provide telehealth appointments to accommodate your situation so we can virtually connect with you.
StrideCare has long been a leader in performing leading-edge procedures to treat vein disease and help patients with vein-related or arterial-related symptoms such as lower leg tingling. The vascular physicians at Stridecare are board-certified diagnostic radiologists with additional fellowship training in vascular and interventional radiology. We will do our best to get you on the road to healthier-feeling legs.
If your veins need treatment, or you have questions about lower leg tingling and would like a vein screening, the experts at StrideCare will recommend an individualized plan to help you get the best results. Request an appointment for a vein disease evaluation to discuss your options.
Prior to starting any new treatment or questions regarding a medical condition, always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
StrideCare serves the South Texas area including Houston, San Antonio, Austin, Round Rock, Bastrop, Brushy Creek, Cedar Park, Converse, Georgetown, Hutto, Kyle, League City, Leander, Marble Falls, New Braunfels, Pasadena, Pearland, Pflugerville, San Marcos, Schertz, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Universal City and more.
