World Thrombosis Day, celebrated every year on October 13, aims to raise public awareness of thrombotic diseases and the need for prevention and early diagnosis.

What is Thrombosis?

Thrombosis is the process of formation of a thrombus, i.e. a clot in the blood, which can lead to blockage of blood vessels. Clots can form in veins (venous thrombosis) or arteries (arterial thrombosis), with serious health consequences. It is a very common condition: 1 in 4 people worldwide die from problems related to blood clots.

Arterial thrombosis is better known to the general public because it causes:

• Myocardial infarction when the coronary vessels are involved
• Ischemic stroke when they involve the heart due to arrhythmia or the arteries of the neck and brain
• Peripheral ischemia when involving the lower or upper limbs

In this article we will focus on venous thrombosis which is much less known although more common and also dangerous because it can cause a serious complication, pulmonary embolism.

What is deep vein thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is defined as the formation of a clot in a vein of the deep system. The main risk of EFT is pulmonary embolism. The clot can break off and block the pulmonary artery or some of its branches. The mortality rate of untreated pulmonary embolism can be as high as 30%.

The majority of cases of pulmonary embolism (more than 80% of cases) are due to the existence of EFT. In Europe, it is estimated that around 600,000 people die each year due to this disease.

ΕΤΥ is favored by specific conditions:

• Surgical procedures (mainly orthopedic)
• Immobility of a lower extremity (eg cast, splint)
• Prolonged bed rest
• Pregnancy
• Long journeys, mainly by air

Other risk factors include:

• Advanced age
• History of thromboembolic disease
• Obesity
• Estrogen therapy
• Venous insufficiency
• Smoking
• Cancer
• Autoimmune diseases
• Thrombophilia

What are the symptoms of EFT?

The symptoms of EFT depend on the severity of the inflammatory reaction and the topography of the clot. In typical cases we observe the following symptoms:

  • Pain in the shin or thigh, spontaneously or on palpation
  • Burning sensation and increased skin temperature
  • Swelling in the ankle, shin, or entire lower limb
  • Possible onset of fever

OR pulmonary embolism may present symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, feeling anxious, coughing with or without blood and loss of consciousness.

Risks and Complications of EFT

In addition to the main risk of VTE which is pulmonary embolism, long-term complications include post-thrombotic syndrome, which can lead to chronic venous insufficiency, with symptoms such as swelling, pain and venous ulcers.

Prevention

Prevention of IBD is extremely important and includes:

• Exercise: Regular exercise helps improve blood circulation. It is recommended to take regular breaks for mobilization, especially in cases of prolonged sitting.
• Healthy diet.
• Hydration: Good hydration is important, especially during long trips.
• Graduated compression socks.
• Stop smoking.

Information and Awareness:

Information about the risks and recognition of the first symptoms is important so that patients seek medical help immediately.