What to do about leg thrombosis
Disease description:
The swelling and pain in my lower leg have persisted for several days and have not improved on their own. Therefore, I went to the hospital for an examination and was diagnosed with a lower limb thrombosis. What should I do now?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng
Lower limb thrombosis, commonly referred to as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the lower extremities, mainly presents with symptoms such as limb swelling, pain, increased skin temperature, and color changes. If not treated promptly, it may lead to serious complications like pulmonary embolism, endangering life.
1. Pharmacological treatment: For early-stage, limited thrombosis, anticoagulant medications such as warfarin and rivaroxaban can be selected. These drugs effectively prevent further extension of the thrombus and promote its dissolution.
2. Physical therapy: Includes the use of compression stockings and intermittent pneumatic compression therapy, which can help improve blood circulation and reduce lower limb swelling.
3. Surgical treatment: For patients with large thrombi or poor response to medication, treatments such as catheter-directed thrombolysis, thrombectomy, or placement of an inferior vena cava filter may be required to prevent pulmonary embolism.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, engaging in moderate exercise, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, can help prevent the occurrence of lower limb thrombosis.
