Half of all people who develop a deep vein thrombosis experience no warning symptoms.
New York, NY (PRWEB) October 10, 2014
“Long-distance air travelers and those who sit all day at work are at increased risk of developing a dangerous deep vein thrombosis, or blood clot,” says Dr. David Greuner, a cardiovascular surgeon and co-founder of NY Heart Health Clinics at NYC Surgical Associates.
Dr. Greuner says that people can reduce their chances of developing a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during long periods of sitting by occasionally standing and stretching their legs. “Screening patients at risk for DVT is important because half of all people with a deep vein thrombosis experience no warning symptoms.”
“When DVT is diagnosed an advanced medical imaging device using intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is used to assist our surgeons in planning the best treatment,” says Dr. Greuner. “IVUS employs a catheter with a miniature high definition ultrasound probe that can enter the blood vessel and measure the interior of the vessel with high accuracy to guide therapeutic decisions.”
“A deep vein thrombosis can develop at any time and if left untreated may break free and travel to the lungs, leading to a pulmonary embolism,” says Dr. Luu.
Long-distance air travel poses risks for DVT:
“Traveling by air for four or more hours doubles the risk of DVT for several weeks after the trip,” says Dr. Luu.
“Anyone who experiences one or more of the following symptoms, especially if they occur suddenly should see a doctor immediately,” says Dr. Greuner.
1. Swelling in one or both legs
2. Pain or tenderness in one or both legs, which may occur only while standing or walking
3. Warmth in the skin of the affected leg
4. Red or discolored skin in the affected leg
5. Visible surface veins
6. Leg fatigue
“NY Heart Health Clinics was created with a mission to educate people regarding the risks associated with sitting down for long periods, to offer strategies to change their work practices and provide corporate on-site DVT screening programs,” says Dr. Greuner.
For more information on screening for deep vein thrombosis and the latest minimally invasive treatments call NYC Surgical Associates at 888-286-6600 and visit http://www.NYCSurgical.net. Clinics are located in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Long Island, The Hamptons and New Jersey.