Deep vein thrombosis
An overview of Providence Health Care’s services and resources for adults living with deep vein thrombosis.
Overview
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) happens when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins in your body (usually the leg). It can cause pain, discoloration and swelling in the area, but sometimes there are no noticeable symptoms.
Deep vein thrombosis can be severe because blood clots can break off. They can then move through the lung, causing a pulmonary embolism.
DVT can cause the following complications:
- Pulmonary embolism
- Post-thrombotic syndrome
Diagnosis & testing
Your health care practitioner will give you a physical exam and a few tests to confirm deep vein thrombosis. They may make you an appointment to visit the Thrombosis Clinic. The tests done may include:
Treatment & management
There are three main goal of treating DVT. One is to prevent the clot from getting bigger. The other two goals are to prevent the clot from breaking apart and moving and to prevent another clot forming. Treatment options include:
- Blood thinners
- Clot busters (thrombolytics)
- Support stockings (compression stockings)
Clinics that treat deep vein thrombosis
Support services
Providence Health Care offers a variety of services to support those we care for. The following services may be of use or benefit to you and your families.
Support for Indigenous Peoples
The Indigenous Wellness Liaison Team is here to support your health journey. Team members offer cultural support and healthcare advocacy. Learn more below or call them at 604-682-2344,62937 or email IWL@providencehealth.bc.ca.
Education & resources
Useful resources
Clinical trials & research
Advances in thrombosis treatments are all thanks to medical research. While participating in research is a decision you should make for yourself in consultation with your care team, there is much activity in this area so please ask us about our research programs if you’re interested.
By taking part in research, you can help us all learn more about thrombosis and find better ways to help people like you live and thrive with the condition. While you cannot assume benefit to yourself, your participation can make a difference in improving care for future patients.
The following clinical trials are currently enrolling volunteers. Please ask your care team for more information or contact the research team listed on each study or trial. For other information about research at Providence Health Care, please visit Providence Research.