DVT may present with subtle or sudden symptoms, including:

• Swelling: Often in one leg, particularly the calf or thigh.
• Pain or Tenderness: Described as a cramp or soreness, worsening with standing or walking.
• Redness or Warmth: Over the affected area.
• Skin Discoloration: Bluish or pale skin.

Note: Up to 50% of cases are asymptomatic, underscoring the need for vigilance in high-risk individuals (Mayo Clinic).

DVT arises from disruptions in Virchow’s Triad (Lippincott Review of Pathology):

1. Venous Stasis: Prolonged immobility (e.g., long flights, bed rest).
2. Endothelial Injury: Trauma, surgery, or inflammation.
3. Hypercoagulability:
   • Genetic: Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin G20210A mutation.
   • Acquired: Cancer, pregnancy, estrogen therapy, or obesity.

Additional Risks: Age >60, smoking, and chronic conditions like heart failure (WHO).

1. Non-Pharmacological Measures:
   • Early Ambulation: Post-surgery or during travel.
   • Compression Stockings: Improve blood flow in high-risk patients.
   • Hydration and Movement: Avoid prolonged sitting; stretch legs during long journeys.
2. Pharmacological Prophylaxis (BNF Guidelines):
   • Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH): Enoxaparin or dalteparin for surgical/trauma patients.
   • Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs): Rivaroxaban or apixaban for medical inpatients.
3. Lifestyle Modifications:
   • Maintain a healthy weight and avoid smoking (WHO).

1. Anticoagulation Therapy:
   • Acute Phase: LMWH (e.g., enoxaparin) or fondaparinux.
   • Long-Term: DOACs (e.g., rivaroxaban, dabigatran) or warfarin (monitored via INR).
2. Thrombolysis:
   • Reserved for massive iliofemoral DVT or limb-threatening clots (Lippincott Textbook of Pharmacology).
3. Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Filters:
   • Used if anticoagulation is contraindicated (e.g., active bleeding).
4. Duration of Therapy:
   • 3–6 months for provoked DVT; indefinite for unprovoked/recurrent clots (Lange Textbook of Clinical Pharmacology).

• Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Clot migration to lungs, causing chest pain, dyspnea, or sudden death.
• Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS): Chronic pain, swelling, and ulcers due to valve damage.
• Recurrence: 30% risk within 10 years without prophylaxis (Mayo Clinic).

• Self-Monitoring: Watch for PE symptoms (e.g., sudden shortness of breath).
• Medication Adherence: Avoid missed doses of anticoagulants; monitor for bleeding.

Follow-Up Care: Regular blood tests (INR for warfarin) and vascular assessments

DVT is a preventable and treatable condition with timely intervention. Advances in DOACs have simplified management, but prevention remains key. At-risk individuals should prioritize mobility, hydration, and adherence to medical advice.

Key Takeaways:

• Recognize early symptoms and seek prompt care.
• Follow prescribed anticoagulation regimens strictly.

Advocate for prophylactic measures during hospitalization or travel