Deep vein thrombosis in pregnancy

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can occur at any time, but these risks increase during pregnancy. Basically it is a blood clot that usually starts in one of the deep veins of the lower legs. The blood that comes back up from the legs to the heart has to fight the force of gravity. Compression of the large abdomen, combined with blood and hormonal changes, makes this a much more complex process than in the non-pregnant state.

There are also changes in the tendency of blood to clot during pregnancy, which protects the expectant mother from uncontrolled uterine bleeding. Although this means it will be more effective in blood clotting, it increases the risk of DVT. Compounds in the blood that maintain normal anticoagulant ability are also reduced. The combination of these factors means that pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to the development of DVT.

Although it increases the risk of pregnancy by 4-5 times, the chances of getting DVT are still low. One in every 1000 pregnant mothers will have problems with one.

Pregnancy risk factors increase the likelihood of DVT

• Overweight or obesity
• Smoking
• Living, sitting for long hours, or being motionless
• Bed rest can be a risk factor for premature birth or a dangerous birth - if the legs don’t help return blood to the heart, blood can build up in the lower legs.
• Facing general problems with blood circulation
• Surgery or cesarean delivery during pregnancy
• Those with a history of DVT before
• Blood coagulation disorder or a genetic abnormality in the body's blood clotting mechanisms
• Severe varicose enlargement of the leg or vulva
• Dehydration leads to insufficient blood circulation
• Common problems with preeclampsia or blood pressure
• Being pregnant in other cases or complicated by infection
• Women over the age of 35 are at higher risk of developing DVT during pregnancy

Why is this on the feet?

Just because they are so far from the heart. The muscles and arteries of the legs need to work efficiently and frequently, which helps return blood back to the trunk and back to the heart, which can be replenished with oxygen.

Sometimes the clot starts in the lower leg, but spreads to the large veins of the groin and pelvis. By then, he had been identified.

Signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis

Symptoms vary individually, but they may include the following or all of them:

• The classic sign of DVT is that it is impossible to put the heel on the ground because of the sharp pain.
• Swelling of the heels is more than usual. This is especially worrying if they are still swollen after lifting their legs and feet all night.
• Localized redness in the foot, especially in or around the calf muscles. Sometimes the skin color changes to a faint blue / red appearance.
• Sensation of heat or increased heat in the leg or calf muscle area.

Diagnosis is made by clinical signs, as well as by a special ultrasound examination of the affected foot. Blood flow is measured inside, outside, and around the suspected clot and compared to normal levels.

What is the harm of deep vein thrombosis?

The real danger with DVT is that part of it can separate from the rest of the thrombus and pass to the heart or lungs, or even the brain. Blocking any blood flow and oxygen supply to these organs is an emergency medical care. If it goes to the lungs, it is called a pulmonary embolism (PE).

Symptoms of pulmonary embolism

• Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and pain on breathing
• Coughing up blood
• Chest pain
• Fainting and fainting
• A running heart
• Breathe faster than usual

When should I be careful?

• At any time sitting or lying down for a long time and not walking around
• During the flight, you can also be narrow and if the cabin pressure is low
• When your feet are swollen and excess fluid accumulates around your feet and ankles
• If you drink a little and become dehydrated - this can happen during gastroenteritis or Hyperemesis Gravidarum, when the mother is dehydrated.

What should I do to prevent deep vein thrombosis?

• Drink plenty of fluids - about 2,5-3 liters of water per day is enough; more on very hot days.
• Avoid sitting for long periods of time. Get up and move. Walking, swimming, cycling - any movement will help to keep your blood flowing and your feet free.
• Avoid wearing tight or shrinking clothing. Bare pillows, thin or ‘shapewear’ pants, which are ‘cut’ and as a result the large artery that supplies the legs, are especially dangerous.
• Avoid crossing your legs.
• Avoid sitting in tight, restricted areas. Public transport, long flights, and long delays in waiting rooms are not advisable.
• Your obstetrician or midwife may advise you to wear a help hose, especially if you have had DVT in the past.
• Avoid drinking large amounts of caffeinated beverages, such as tea, coffee and cola. This can lead to dehydration, which is a major risk factor for DVT.
• Don’t put a pillow or cushion under your calves, no matter how comfortable it is. Anything that makes it easier for blood to get in and out of the feet can cause problems.
• If you work at a desk or sit at a computer for long periods of time, make sure your feet touch the floor. If you use a footrest, make sure your feet are resting on it rather than hanging comfortably.
• When you sit in a chair, make sure the seat does not end behind the knee. Similarly, if you are sitting in a low chair, do not allow the seat to come into contact with the calves.
• Rotate your feet clockwise and counterclockwise every half hour for a few minutes. Go for a walk in the bathroom, follow a few quick schemes of the running floor to move your blood in your body.