Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that results from blood clots forming the body’s deep veins, particularly found in the legs. Usually, DVT causes pain and swelling in the legs, but in some cases, it might not cause any symptoms at all. Herein, we take a closer look at the risk factors attached to the condition and the diagnostic tests used for it.

1. DVT Risk Factors
Developing DVT can be dangerous. The blood clot is often formed in the veins inside the thigh or the lower leg. However, it can break free and travel to the lungs through your bloodstream and lead to a condition called pulmonary embolism. This condition can prove to be fatal, so knowing if you are at risk is important. Thus, you can take all precautionary measures to prevent this severe condition. The risk factors of DVT include

• Prior History of DVT
  This is the biggest risk factor of DVT, and the likeliness of developing this condition increase one has suffered from the condition earlier. This is because once a deep vein suffers from an injury due to the condition, it can never recover completely, and thus, the chances of new blood clots forming always keep looming.
• Surgery
  Undergoing surgery, especially in the prostate, hip, or knee can increase the chances of DVT. There are several reasons behind this and they include low blood flow due to more bed-rest time, formation of blood clots due to tissue and fat debris, and any damage caused to the veins during the surgery.
• Age
  In addition to medical history, age can be another big risk factor for DVT. This condition can affect people of any age, but people who are above 60 years of age are considered to be at higher risk. From the age of 40, the likeliness of developing DVT starts to increase and it reaches its peak by the time a person is 60.

2. Diagnosis of DVT
To diagnose this condition, the doctor will start by asking you the symptoms you have been experiencing. These questions will be followed by a physical exam for the doctor to look for swelling, changes in skin color, or any tenderness. The tests that doctors normally conduct to diagnose DVT include

• D-dimer Blood Test
  D-dimer is a type of protein produced by the blood clots. This protien is often found to be an increased level in people with DVT. Thus, a D-dimer blood test can be ordered by the doctor.
• Duplex Ultrasound
  This test is non-invasive as it employs sound waves and creates images of the blood flow through the veins. A duplex ultrasound test is usually the standard one used for diagnosing DVT.
• Venography
  In this procedure, dye into the large vein of the ankle or the foot. Then, an X-ray is used to create a picture of the veins present in the legs and feet to check for any clotting.