Nikolaos Paraskevas, Vascular Surgeon and Director of the 2nd Vascular Surgery Department at HYGEIA Hospital, explains the dangers of thrombosis and highlights the importance of prevention on the occasion of World Thrombosis Day.

World Thrombosis Day, observed annually on October 13, aims to raise public awareness about thrombotic conditions and emphasize the importance of prevention and early diagnosis.

What Is Thrombosis?

Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) that can obstruct blood vessels and disrupt normal blood circulation. Blood clots can develop in veins (venous thrombosis) or arteries (arterial thrombosis), potentially leading to serious health complications.

Thrombosis is an extremely common and potentially life-threatening condition. Worldwide, 1 in 4 deaths is associated with thrombosis-related conditions.

Arterial thrombosis is generally more familiar to the public because it can cause:

• Myocardial infarction (heart attack): When a blood clot blocks a coronary artery.
• Ischemic stroke: When a clot forms in the heart due to an arrhythmia or affects the arteries supplying blood to the neck and brain.
• Peripheral ischemia: When blood flow to the upper or lower limbs is obstructed.

This article focuses on venous thrombosis, which is less widely recognized despite being common and potentially dangerous. One of its most serious complications is pulmonary embolism, a potentially fatal condition.

What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins, most commonly in the legs.

The primary danger associated with DVT is pulmonary embolism (PE). This occurs when part of a blood clot breaks loose, travels through the bloodstream and blocks the pulmonary artery or one of its branches.

Without treatment, the mortality rate associated with pulmonary embolism can reach 30%.

The vast majority of pulmonary embolism cases (more than 80%) are associated with deep vein thrombosis. In Europe, it is estimated that approximately 600,000 people die each year from venous thromboembolic disease.

What Are the Risk Factors for Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Certain circumstances significantly increase the likelihood of developing DVT, including:

• Surgical procedures, particularly orthopedic surgery
• Immobilization of a lower limb, such as wearing a cast or splint
• Prolonged bed rest
• Pregnancy
• Long-distance travel, especially air travel

Other risk factors include:

• Advanced age
• Previous history of thromboembolic disease
• Obesity
• Estrogen-based treatments
• Venous insufficiency
• Smoking
• Cancer
• Autoimmune diseases
• Thrombophilia (an increased tendency to develop blood clots)

What Are the Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis?

The symptoms of DVT vary depending on the location of the blood clot and the severity of the associated inflammatory response.

Typical symptoms include:

• Pain in the calf or thigh, either spontaneously or when the affected area is touched
• A burning sensation or increased skin temperature in the affected limb
• Swelling of the ankle, calf or entire leg
• Fever, in some cases

Pulmonary embolism may cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, a feeling of anxiety, coughing with or without blood, and loss of consciousness.

These symptoms may indicate a medical emergency and require immediate medical attention.

Risks and Complications of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Although pulmonary embolism is the most serious immediate complication of DVT, the condition can also cause long-term health problems.

One of the most significant is post-thrombotic syndrome, which can lead to chronic venous insufficiency.

Patients affected by this condition may experience persistent swelling, pain and, in more severe cases, venous ulcers.

These complications can significantly affect mobility, daily activities and overall quality of life.

How Can Deep Vein Thrombosis Be Prevented?

Preventing DVT is essential, particularly for individuals with known risk factors.

Important preventive measures include:

• Regular physical activity: Exercise promotes healthy blood circulation. Taking frequent breaks to stand, stretch and walk is particularly important during prolonged periods of sitting.
• A healthy, balanced diet: Maintaining a nutritious diet and a healthy body weight supports cardiovascular health.
• Adequate hydration: Staying properly hydrated is important, especially during long journeys.
• Graduated compression stockings: These may help improve venous blood flow and reduce the risk of blood clots in certain individuals, when recommended by a healthcare professional.
• Smoking cessation: Quitting smoking helps reduce vascular health risks.

People at increased risk of thrombosis may also require additional preventive measures, including medical treatment, depending on their individual circumstances and their physician’s recommendations.

Awareness and Early Detection Can Save Lives

Understanding the risk factors and recognizing the early warning signs of thrombosis are crucial steps toward prevention.

Public awareness encourages individuals to seek medical advice promptly when suspicious symptoms appear, helping reduce the risk of potentially life-threatening complications.

Early diagnosis, appropriate treatment and effective prevention remain key to reducing the impact of thrombosis and saving lives.