A thrombus in a vein is called a venous thrombus. Venous thrombi form in the deep veins of the legs, pelvis, or arms and can cause serious health complications. A venous thrombus is a blood clot that forms in a vein and can travel to the heart or lungs, blocking blood flow. If it is not treated promptly, it can lead to serious health issues such as a pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of a venous thrombus include swelling in the leg, pain, tenderness, warmth in the affected area, discoloration of the skin, and redness. If the thrombus is large, it may cause a lump in the leg or arm.
Diagnosis
A venous thrombus is usually diagnosed through a physical exam, imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan, and blood tests. The doctor may also take a blood sample to test for clotting factors.
Treatment
Treatment of a venous thrombus usually involves anticoagulant medications, such as heparin or warfarin, to reduce the clotting of the blood and prevent further thrombus formation. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the clot or to open up a blocked vein.