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How Is Deep Vein Thrombosis Treated?

Take a look at three common types of deep vein thrombosis treatment that you can find in Meridian, MS.

Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. It can be very painful and cause swelling and long-term damage if not treated properly. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for DVT, including medications, lifestyle changes, and surgery. If you require deep vein thrombosis treatment in Meridian, MS, Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) can help. Let’s take a closer look at common deep-vein thrombosis treatments and what to expect if you are diagnosed with DVT. 

Medications

The most common type of medication used to treat deep vein thrombosis is anticoagulant drugs or “blood thinners.” These medications work by preventing new clots from forming. They also help existing clots dissolve so that they can be cleared from the body more quickly. Commonly prescribed anticoagulants include heparin, warfarin (Coumadin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), apixaban (Eliquis), rivaroxaban (Xarelto), and dabigatran (Pradaxa). 

If you have had more than one DVT episode or if you are at risk for further blood clots, your doctor in Meridian may also prescribe a deep vein thrombosis treatment called an antiplatelet drug. Antiplatelet drugs work by making it harder for your platelets—the cells in your blood that help form clots—to stick together and form dangerous clumps. Commonly prescribed antiplatelet drugs include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), prasugrel (Effient), ticagrelor (Brilinta), and dipyridamole/aspirin combination therapy.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to taking medications, certain lifestyle changes can reduce one’s risk of having another DVT episode. These changes include:

  • Quitting smoking 
  • Getting regular exercise
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Avoiding sitting or standing for long periods of time without taking breaks to move around
  • Drinking plenty of water throughout the day
  • Eating a balanced diet low in salt and fat
  • Wearing loose-fitting clothing that does not restrict circulation in your legs or feet
  • Wearing compression stockings if recommended by your doctor

Each of these steps can have a positive impact on one’s overall health. They can also help to reduce the risk of developing another episode of DVT.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat deep vein thrombosis. Surgery is typically reserved for people who have severe symptoms or who do not respond well to medications. One of the most common types of surgery used to treat DVT is vena cava filter placement. 

During this procedure, a small filter is inserted into the inferior vena cava. This is a large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the lower half of the body back to the heart. The procedure can help prevent more clots from traveling through this vein into the lungs or other organs. If a clot moves into a vital organ, it could cause serious damage or even death. Other types of surgery may also be necessary depending on the severity of the case. Any underlying medical conditions responsible for causing DVT episodes may also need to be addressed through surgery.

Do You Need Deep Vein Thrombosis Treatment in Meridian?

If you are searching for deep vein thrombosis treatment options in Meridian, talk to the cardiovascular experts at CIS. Deep vein thrombosis can be a life-threatening condition if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available depending on what works best for each individual patient’s situation. Medications like anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs can help prevent new clots from forming. And certain lifestyle changes, such as smoking cessation and regular exercise, can help reduce overall risk factors associated with DVT. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary. But this should only be considered after careful consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. 

If you believe you may be suffering from DVT, don’t wait. Call 601-282-8920 or schedule an appointment online. Take charge of your health with world-class care and treatments from CIS.Request an Appointment


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CIS Staff

Written by CIS Staff