On average, thrombosis can occur in every second German in the course of his or her life. A distinction is made between thromboses of the arteries and veins, with venous thromboses occurring more frequently. A blood clot in the deep leg veins is accompanied by swelling and pain in the affected leg.
Untreated, thrombosis poses a high risk of pulmonary embolism, which is life-threatening. Early detection of a thrombosis can save valuable time. Even if the symptoms are not always clear, there are signs that should not be ignored. Depending on your own risk of thrombosis, preventive measures can be taken to avoid the development of thrombosis.
Definition
A thrombosis is a blood clot that closes a vessel. The clot consists of thrombocytes (blood platelets), which normally close a bleeding wound. The clumping mechanism of the blood protects the body from bleeding to death. However, if the blood’s ability to clot increases, thrombi can also form within the vascular system. As a result, there is not only an increased risk of life-threatening pulmonary embolism, but also of an oxygen deficiency in the downstream organs.
Cause
The risk of venous thrombosis increases with age. Every year, about 1000 out of every million people in Germany are affected. In most cases, thromboses occur in the deep leg veins and in the pelvic veins.
Symptoms
Even though the symptoms of thrombosis are often inconclusive, they should be taken seriously. Some thromboses only lead to symptoms in the course of the disease and can cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism despite harmless signs. Typically, venous thrombosis is accompanied by swelling and a feeling of tension.
The skin is overheated and reddened and feels tight and taut. Pressure sensitivity and pain can also occur. If the thrombosis is located in the leg, the symptoms are significantly relieved after elevation.
Fever and an increased heart rate can also be observed in some cases and can help to identify a thrombosis. Regardless of whether the thrombosis is located in the leg, pelvis or arm, the symptoms are similar. Leg vein thrombosis can be recognized by typical signs such as pain when putting on the foot and pressure on the sole of the foot. Complaints in the calf are similar to sore muscles and can also be triggered by applying pressure with both hands. A thrombosis in the arm can be recognized by a swelling and the distinct protrusion of the veins.
