What are the Signs and Symptoms of DVT?

By Jami D. Eddy | March 14, 2018

Taking steps to protect your aging parent from deep vein thrombosis is an extremely important part of protecting their health and well-being as they age in place. This potentially fatal condition is a blood clot that occurs generally in the legs or torso and can lead to long-lasting negative effects and even death. Sometimes, however, prevention methods are not effective. In this case, it is very important that you are able to identify the signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis so you can ensure your parent gets the prompt and effective medical attention that they need to overcome this clot safely.

Caregiver in Tallahassee FL: Signs and Symptoms of DVT

Some of the signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis include:

Swelling in the leg that is affected by the blood clot. Though rare, sometimes the swelling occurs in both legs.
Redness on the leg.
Discoloration of the skin on the leg.
A feeling of warmth on the leg that is affected by the blood clot.

If the deep vein thrombosis has progressed to becoming a pulmonary embolism, meaning that it is moved into the lungs, signs and symptoms can include:

Sudden shortness of breath.
Pain in the chest that worsens when taking a deep breath.
Producing blood when coughing.
Rapid pulse.
Fainting.
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded.

If your parent has any risk factor for deep vein thrombosis, including an extended period of sitting or bed rest such as due to illness, surgery, hospitalization, or traveling, and experiences any of the symptoms, it is extremely important that they receive medical attention promptly. Be sure to tell the medical team of any risk factors that they have, their recent activities, and the specific symptoms that you have noticed so that they can get the proper diagnosis and on the right management track as soon as possible.

Making the decision to be a family caregiver for your aging parent can be one of the most meaningful choices you ever make. This is a way for you to show love and respect to your parent, and to ensure that they are getting all that they need to manage their challenges and limitations in effective, meaningful, fulfilling ways. The responsibilities of caring for your parent, however, can be stressful and, at times, overwhelming. Fortunately, you do not have to feel as though you are alone. Home care can be there for you. Starting care for your parent means that an in-home care provider can be with your parent to fill care gaps, offer support and companionship, manage sensitive care tasks, and work with you to create a care routine that is right for your senior as an individual. This can give both of you tremendous peace of mind and confidence as they age in place.

If you or an aging loved one are considering caregiver services in Tallahassee, FL, please call the caring staff at Hopewell In-Home Senior Care today at 850-386-5552. Providing Senior Care Services in North Florida

Sources

https://www.stoptheclot.org/know-your-risk.htm

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/deep-vein-thrombosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352557

Author
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Jami D. Eddy

Administrator at Hopewell In-Home Senior Care

Jami Eddy is the Administrator and an owner of Hopewell In-Home Senior Care. She graduated from Florida State University in 2005 with a major in criminology and a minor in psychology. Jami has been with Hopewell for more than 10 years and is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the business.