What is a thrombus in the leg?

Thrombosis of the veins is manifested by the formation of blood clots (thrombi) in the veins. As a rule, a thrombus in the leg partially or completely clogs the blood vessels, which leads to negative consequences.

Quite often such a disease as a vein thrombosis occurs. With it, veins become clogged, and blood can not move freely around them. Because of a violation of the outflow of blood, it stagnates with swelling and blueing of the skin in the place where the thrombus in the leg was formed. Thrombosis can in case of detachment from the venous wall lead to blockage of the lumen of the pulmonary artery. In this case, there is a dangerous disease - thromboembolism.

Inflammation of the vein can also lead to a blockage of veins by a thrombus. Then thrombophlebitis occurs. The main signs of a thrombus in the leg: swelling, pain, increased body temperature. Often thrombophlebitis is a consequence of varicose veins on the legs. Diagnosis of thrombosis is based on symptoms and ultrasound of veins, as well as phlebography and MRI.

Thrombophlebitis, in which a thrombus is formed in the leg, is treated with drugs and drugs that can reduce blood coagulation. If the disease is not treated, then a torn clot in the leg can get into the heart and blood vessels, which in practice often leads to various serious complications, up to sudden death.

There are several reasons for the formation of blood clots. A thrombosis occurs if, for example, a person does not move for three days or more (for example, after surgery) or is immobilized permanently (for example, paralyzed patients with a long absence of movement). Also, an increase in the viscosity of the blood can lead to prolonged dehydration of the body. It may lead to a lack of drinking in hot weather, getting burns, various infectious diseases. Violation of blood clotting can occur due to the presence of cancer of various organs of the human body. Sometimes it can be congenital, that is, acquired in the womb of the mother.

To prevent the formation of thrombosis, it is necessary to exclude the main risk factors. If there are several risk factors, then the doctor must prescribe a certain set of drugs and methods that will prevent the development of thrombosis.

Among the risk factors can be identified the following: old age, overweight, the presence of tumors of various types, long absence of movement in the legs for three or more days, long trips, long-distance flights, pregnancy and recent childbirth, diseases and cardiovascular disorders System.

Sometimes thrombosis can be asymptomatic or manifest at once a number of symptoms. It can be a swelling in the lower third of the leg (the calf), pain during movement, especially with flexion of the foot, increased sensitivity of the foot skin.

Treatment for thrombosis depends on factors such as the cause of the disease, age, etc. If the thrombus is securely attached to the vein wall, then drug treatment is prescribed, and if there is a risk of its detachment, thrombectomy is performed (surgical removal of the thrombus). In the presence of thrombosis patients must comply with bed rest.

The acute form of thrombosis requires immediate surgical intervention, especially for patients with diseases that directly threaten the functionality of the limbs. In other cases, it is advisable to conduct conservative treatment after a complete examination of the patient's health condition. The earlier the course of treatment begins, the more effective the result and the less negative consequences and complications after venous disease.