Deep Vein Thrombosis Concerns For Men And Women Over 50

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs in men and women over 50 when a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the body. This most commonly happens in the veins of the leg, particularly the calf. In some instances it may also develop in deep veins in other areas such as the arm. Clots in deep veins are different to those that form just under the skin. Superficial clots are called Phlebitis and are far less likely to have serious consequences.

DVT itself may not pose a significant risk as long as the clot remains in situ within the leg. In fact in many cases the body's natural processes may cause clots to break down and be reabsorbed without causing any lasting injury. However, problems occur when the clot or part of it breaks free and travels through the blood vessels. It could have particularly serious consequences if it lodges in the main arteries of the lungs.

Blockage in the pulmonary artery of the lung is a potentially life threatening condition referred to as a pulmonary embolism.


Symptoms of DVT include:

Swelling and tenderness of the leg

Redness and heat in the affected area

However, many small clots may cause no symptoms at all.

Why do clots form in the veins of the leg?

Blood needs to travel up the legs, which defies gravity. This upward movement is supported by the regular contraction of the calf muscles as a result of normal daily movement. However, during periods of extended inactivity this muscular support is lacking and blood tends to pool in the legs. This results in the common sensation of swollen ankles after a long flight. It can also result in blood clotting in the deep veins, setting in motion the DVT process.

Given that long periods of inactivity increase risk of DVT, there have been many claims that long international flights pose a significant risk. This has led to DVT being called "Economy Class Syndrome" because limited leg room in Economy Class may make passengers particularly vulnerable. Scientific opinion is divided on the risks of air travel in this regard. Nevertheless many airlines today choose to play it safe and advise passengers to take precautions against DVT including:

Moving around frequently during a flight.

Exercising leg muscles regularly while seated.

Avoiding too much alcohol.

Keeping well hydrated.

Wearing loose fitting clothes especially around the legs.

There are many factors that increase the risk of DVT including:

Prior history of blood clots.

Family History of DVT or blood clots.

Surgery or injury especially to the hips or legs.

Certain blood disorders that increase the risk of blood clots.

Circulation problems or heart failure.

Pregnancy.

Use of oral contraceptives.

Obesity.

Smoking.

Symptoms of DVT may not always be clear cut and can often be confused with other conditions. Hence doctors may use a combination of tests to reach a diagnosis of DVT including:

Blood tests.

Ultrasounds to detect blood clots.

Venograms - where dye is injected into the veins to help detect blockages.

Complications of DVT in men and women over 50 can be serious and life threatening. The most serious is a Pulmonary Embolism where the clot breaks away and blocks the pulmonary artery in the lung. This can cause chest pain and shortness of breath and if not treated immediately can cause death. The connection with DVT may not be immediately apparent as the pulmonary embolism may occur several days after the initial onset of DVT.

Other complications include:

Post-thrombotic syndrome where the clot causes damage to the valves in the vein causing blood to collect in the limb resulting in pain,swelling and ulcers in the leg.

Limb Ischaemia where the blockage results in reduced blood flow and reduced oxygen to the cells in the leg.

The most common treatment for DVT is the use of anticoagulants such as Heparin and Warfarin which aim to dissolve the clot. Use of anticoagulant medication carries its own risks so like most other medical conditions prevention is always better than cure. A healthy, active lifestyle and diet combined with some commonsense can help avoid men and women over 50 the pain and potentially serious consequences of DVT.