7 Healthcast: DVT

Many American's don't even know they have it.  The symptoms are silent.  Deep Vein Thromboses, or DVT is the most common form of a blood clot.  Close to two million Americans will be affected by it this year.
 
Dr. Shean O'Donnell, vascular surgeon
"It's a huge problem in this country, probably more people die from thrombular problems or blood clots than they do from car accidents yearly. "
 
Take a close look, DVT is a blood clot that builds up in a vein in your leg, and in some cases the clot begins to come apart and then it travels through the circulatory system and can end up in your lungs, heart, even the brain.
 
Not everyone will have symptoms, so it's critical to know the red flags:  Unusual leg cramps, swelling, red skin, and skin warm to the touch.
 
DVT is common after routine surgeries, during pregnancy, in smokers, or those overweight, but it can happen to anyone.

Margaret Smith, 16, who has been healthy her entire life, had noticed a sharp pain in her leg after sitting for an extended period of time. She thought it could have been from a soccer injury, but doctors discovered a blood clot, she had DVT.

Doctors say to avoid being at risk, try not to sit in a cramped position for a long period of time, like during air travel get up and walk around. Also, drink plenty of water and exercise regularly. Frances Rivera, 7News.

And if you think you might have DVT, don't take any chances, go to your doctor and get checked out right away. 

Also, doctors say wearing compression stockings can help, and they may need to prescribe a blood thinner to prevent clots from forming too.

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