Deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities – acute illness, affecting the veins located under the muscles. Blood clots form in the veins, narrowing the lumen of the vessel until it is completely blocked. Blockage of blood vessels is observed in 15% of cases. Sometimes venous thrombosis develops rapidly and can lead to disability and even death.

The deep vessels of the leg are most susceptible to thrombosis. The resulting clots attach to the walls of blood vessels. During the first 3-4 days, blood clots are weakly retained and can break off and migrate with the bloodstream.

Gradually, the blood clot hardens and becomes firmly attached to the vein wall, provoking inflammation of the venous wall in the area of ​​the blood clot. Inflammation leads to the formation of new blood clots, which settle above the primary clot. The transition of thrombosis to the inflammatory stage occurs within about a week.

The main causes of the disease are increased blood clotting, slowing of venous blood flow and damage to the walls of blood vessels (Virchow's triad). The development of thrombosis can be provoked by:

• Congenital anomalies vein structure;
• Oncological diseases;
• Endocrine disorders;
• Pregnancy;
• Infections;
• Trauma and surgery;
• Paralysis of limbs;
• Taking drugs that increase blood clotting;
• Long bed rest;
• Obesity;
• Varicose veins.

Additional risk factors include smoking, strong physical activity, long stay sitting or standing, associated with the characteristics of professional activity, age over forty years.

According to statistics, every 10 years after reaching the age of forty, the risk of developing vascular pathologies doubles.

Signs and symptoms

Deep thrombosis veins in the early stages may be asymptomatic and its first manifestation is (thromboembolism pulmonary artery, TELA). The typical progression of the disease occurs in approximately every second patient.

Classic symptoms of deep vein thrombosis are:

• Local increase in temperature in the affected area.
• Increase in general temperature to 39 degrees or more.
• Bursting pain along the affected vein.
• Heaviness in the legs.
• Swelling below the area where the clot attaches.
• Glossy or bluish skin.
• Part of the blood volume from the thrombosed vein is directed to the superficial vessels, which become clearly visible.

During the first two days after the formation of deep vein thrombosis of the leg or thigh, the symptoms are mild. As a rule, this is mild pain in the calf muscle, intensifying during movement and palpation. There is slight swelling in the lower third of the leg.

If thrombosis is suspected Lowenberg and Homans tests are performed. The patient is asked to flex the foot upward. The diagnosis is confirmed by pain in the lower leg. When squeezing the affected leg with a tonometer at blood pressure values ​​of 80/100 mmHg. Art. pain occurs. Pain when squeezing a healthy limb is felt when the blood pressure is 150/180 mmHg. Art.

When all deep veins are affected, the symptoms intensify. The pain is characterized as sharp and develops severe swelling, the skin takes on a bluish tint (cyanosis).

The severity and localization of symptoms depend on the location of the thrombosed area. The higher the affected area is located, the stronger the cyanosis, swelling and pain.. This increases the risk of blood clot rupture and the development of pulmonary embolism.

When the femoral vein is thrombosed, the swelling is localized in the thigh area; thrombosis at the level of the iliac and femoral veins (ileofemoral thrombosis) is accompanied by swelling of the entire limb, starting from the inguinal fold. The skin of the affected limb becomes milky white or bluish in color.

The development of the disease depends on the location of the blood clot. Ileofemoral thrombosis develops rapidly, pain appears, then the leg swells, and the color of the skin changes.

Thrombosis of blood vessels in the lower part of the leg is manifested by mild pain. The intensity of pain increases during movement and physical activity. Amazed the leg swells below the location of the blood clot, the skin turns pale and becomes glossy, later acquires a pronounced bluish tint. Within a few days after the formation of a blood clot, superficial veins appear.

For a better understanding of what awaits the patient if the symptoms and signs of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities are ignored and there is no treatment, take a look at the photo:

When to see a doctor

Venous thrombosis is an insidious and deadly disease. Most serious reason to visit a phlebologist- increased blood clotting regardless of trauma, surgery, wounds, etc.

You should not delay visiting a doctor if you experience characteristic pain in the legs against the background of one or more risk factors for the development of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities. Changes in skin color, characteristic of vein thrombosis, should also be alarming.

Diagnostics

The main methods for diagnosing vascular damage are: duplex scan and blood test for D-dimer. If the doctor has doubts about the results of the duplex study or the blood clot is located above the inguinal fold, the method of radiopaque venography is used.

A radiopaque contrast agent is injected into the venous bed and the usual x-ray. This method provides more reliable data than ultrasound examination and allows you to accurately determine the location of the thrombus.

In some cases, the patient is additionally prescribed MR or CT angiography.

The clinical picture of the disease resembles the development of other pathologies, including those not associated with vascular lesions. Differential diagnosis carried out with Baker's cyst, acute embolism of the iliofemoral arteries.

The cause of pain in the calf muscles may be neuritis sciatic nerve of various etiologies . Pain of neurological origin is permanent and is often accompanied by disturbances in sensitivity, motor reactions or tissue trophism.

A clinical picture reminiscent of lesions of the deep veins of the lower extremities can develop with lymphostasis, arthritis, myalgia, myositis, trauma, compression of the veins from the outside (including tumor processes), pathologies of the superficial veins, arterial or venous insufficiency and a number of other diseases.

Treatment

When a disease is detected treatment begins immediately. Depending on the characteristics of a particular clinical case, the severity of the patient’s condition and the stage of development of the disease, treatment is carried out on an outpatient basis or in a hospital surgical department conservatively or surgically.

Conservative therapy

In case of initial detection of thrombosis, treatment lasts up to 6 months, in case of relapses – up to a year or more. illness, the patient is admitted to hospital and 10 days of bed rest are prescribed. The bed at the foot is raised by about 20 degrees to improve blood flow from the distal extremities.

Patients are prescribed heparin therapy, thrombolytic and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Thrombolytics are prescribed in the early stages of pathology, while there is no risk of clot fragmentation. The course of treatment includes prostaglandin drugs, glucocorticoids, anticoagulants. If necessary, the affected leg can be immobilized; in some cases, patients are prescribed to wear compression stockings.

After the pain subsides, the patient is prescribed physical therapy to activate blood circulation.

Surgical treatment

Cases of floating thrombosis, i.e. those in which there is a high probability of a blood clot breaking off, as well as complete blockage of the lumen of blood vessels, are subject to surgical treatment.

In the practice of surgical treatment of thrombosed veins, the following is used:

• Kava filter. It is installed in the inferior vena cava to catch detached blood clots or their fragments and serves as a preventive measure for blockage of blood vessels.
• Plication of the inferior vena cava. The wall of the affected vessel is stitched with metal staples.
• Fogarty catheter. Used to remove loosely fixed blood clots during the first five days after clot formation.
• Thrombectomy. Surgery to remove blood clots in the early stages of development. When thrombosis develops into inflammation of the veins caused by a blood clot, thrombectomy is contraindicated.

Find out more about the methods in a separate publication.

Forecasts

With timely adequate treatment, the prognosis for the course of the disease is favorable. If left untreated, approximately 20% of cases lead to pulmonary embolism, and 10-20% of cases of pulmonary embolism result in death. Among possible complications untreated vein thrombosis - gangrene, stroke, myocardial infarction. Untreated venous thrombosis leads to the development of pulmonary embolism within three months in approximately half of patients.

For more on the topic, watch the video:

The formation of a blood clot in the leg is accompanied by characteristic symptoms, very painful, frightening with the suddenness of their appearance. Thrombosis is provoked by varicose veins, blood clotting disorders, and prolonged forced immobility. Blood clots form in all veins, but most often in the venous system of the lower extremities.

A thrombus is a blood clot, the body of which is attached to the wall of the vein, and the tail floats freely with the blood flow. Blood clots reach quite large sizes. The attachment point may be in the lower leg, and the tail extends above the inguinal fold. Fragments can be separated from the tail section and set off on their own. Even more dangerous is the rupture of the head of the blood clot. In this case, there is a threat of blockage of the central blood vessels carrying blood to the head, heart, and lungs.

Signs of venous thrombosis

The blood clot, having attached itself to the venous wall, gradually increases in size. As the lumen of the vessel is blocked and blood flow is disrupted, symptoms of thrombosis appear. The first signs of venous thrombosis are:

• sudden swelling of the leg;
• severe pain, more intense with movement;
• bluish coloration of the skin;
• chills;
• rise in body temperature.

Under the pressure of blood, a thrombus or part of it is torn away from the place of attachment to the vascular wall. In this case, it most often breaks down into separate fragments. The fate of these fragments is different. Some of them undergo further destruction, break up into even smaller pieces and are destroyed. The other part moves with the bloodstream to vital organs, posing a serious danger to them. normal functioning. Blockage of the most important blood lines deprives the brain of nutrition, causing strokes, the heart, provoking heart attacks. Lack of nutrition (ischemia) of the organ causes lesions, the true nature of which cannot always be determined.

Superficial vein thrombosis

With superficial vein thrombosis, the picture of the disease becomes clearer upon visual examination. Pronounced bluishness of the skin, increased venous pattern, and characteristic swelling indicate the possibility of thrombosis and rupture of a blood clot.

Symptoms

• Swelling appears on the lower leg, the skin in this place turns red:
• the temperature at the site of edema rises;
• the lower leg muscles hurt when walking;
• With passive flexion of the foot, the pain in the calf muscles increases.

The danger comes from detached blood clots and blood clots with flotation, when the head is attached to the wall, and the tail with the blood flow stretches along the blood vessel. If there is a threat of a blood clot entering the deep femoral vein, they resort to surgical treatment: ligate the superficial vein in the area of ​​the inguinal fold. The operation is performed under local anesthesia. There are other ways to deal with detached blood clots. If a blood clot in the leg breaks off in the inferior vena cava, the vein above the tear site is sutured: several channels are formed from the vessel wall through which blood flows freely, but the blood clot cannot pass.

Installing filters

Good results are shown by the thrombectomy technique using a special device - a thrombus extractor. After the blood clot is removed, a filter is installed in the vein to prevent the clot from entering the general bloodstream. To catch possible separated fragments, vena cava filters are installed above the separation site - special devices that allow blood to pass through, but retain a blood clot. The vena cava filter is inserted into the vein in a folded form and then opened. Vava filters are available in two models:

• “Umbrella” is a filter consisting of rays that open in the form of an umbrella in the lumen of the inferior vena cava. Filter installation is carried out under local anesthesia.
• “Hourglass” - the shape of the trap follows the shape of an hourglass and serves as a double barrier for detached blood clots; it is installed distal to the mouth of the hepatic veins under local anesthesia.

The “umbrella” is introduced for up to 45 days, after which the trap is removed. The Hourglass filter is set to a constant time. The use of the technique of installing removable or permanent filters increased the effectiveness of the prevention of pulmonary thromboembolism to 98%.

Blockage of deep veins of the leg

The danger of blockage of the deep veins of the thigh and leg is the possibility of migration of a blood clot into the pulmonary artery. The patient should be alerted to bursting pain in the lower leg, heaviness in the legs, and swelling of the affected limb. The patient's temperature rises sharply, veins appear on the skin of the sore leg, and the skin becomes glossy.

The affected leg is elevated and a doctor is called. All warming procedures are contraindicated; the patient must remain in bed for 5 days and take anticoagulants. Instead of surgery, conservative treatment may be prescribed. When installing vena cava filters, fibrinolytics have a good effect on the resorption of blood clots and their fragments.

Deep vein thrombosis of the thigh

Diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis is complicated by the similarity of its symptoms with signs of phlegmon of adipose tissue, rupture of Baker's cyst and a number of other diseases. Deep vein thrombosis of the thigh manifests itself:

• pain on the inside of the thigh;
• swelling;
• heaviness in the affected leg;
• an increase in temperature above 39 o C.

The severity of symptoms and consequences depend on the location of the blood clot and its size. In many cases, blood flow is restored independently through the system of communicating veins. The blood flow is directed to the saphenous veins, and thrombosis remains unrecognized and is asymptomatic. The clot breaks down over time. Some of the fragments undergo lysis, the other part enters the bloodstream, freely floating through the circulatory system and causing complications.

Complications of deep vein thrombosis

Thrombus fragments different sizes, wandering through the circulatory system, pose a danger to any organ. The greatest danger is occlusion of the pulmonary artery and the development of pulmonary thromboembolism.

Vein damage due to thrombosis also poses a health hazard. The process of thrombus formation is accompanied by deformation vascular wall and venous valves, which causes deterioration of blood circulation and congestion in the capillaries. Externally, the history of thrombosis is indicated by:

• easily appearing bruises on the skin over the site of thrombosis;
• skin pigmentation;
• peeling, dry skin;
• the appearance of ulcers, skin itching.

A detached blood clot can cause disability or even death. Avoid dangerous consequences quite possible with serious attitude to treatment. Drug and endoscopic methods of combating blood clots provide positive result treatment at all stages of its formation, separation and destruction.

Thrombosis of the arteries of the lower extremities is characterized by blockage of the veins with blood clots. The disease is dangerous because in most cases it occurs without obvious symptoms. As a result, the pathology is detected too late, when the venous lumen has already been completely blocked by a thrombus, which prevents full blood circulation. An even more dangerous condition is when a blood clot breaks off in the lower extremity and travels through the bloodstream to the heart or lungs. The consequences for the body in this case can be catastrophic, that is, paralysis or death. To be able to resist this insidious pathology, you need to be attentive to your health, and if you have the slightest suspicion of a blood clot in your leg, your symptoms should be checked by consulting a doctor.

What is thrombosis

What is venous thrombosis of the lower extremities? Vascular thrombosis of the lower extremities occurs due to the formation of a blood clot in the cavity of the vessel. Gradually, the size of blood clots in the veins of the legs increases and so on until the lumen of the artery is completely blocked. Absolutely all vascular ducts of the circulatory system, namely veins, arteries, and capillaries, are at risk of forming blood clots.

What are the types of blood clots in veins?

• Parietal, those that are located on the walls of blood vessels.
• Obstructive, which completely block the vascular lumen.

The process of blood clot formation is not only natural for the body, but also necessary. defensive reaction from mechanical damage to blood vessels, soft tissues, organs and skin. Do not have an organism in the composition shaped elements platelet blood, a person could easily die from internal bleeding, for example, in the case of even minor damage to a vein. But thanks to white anucleate blood cells, the same blood clot, consisting of platelets and collagen, instantly forms at the site of the rupture of the vessel. Such a blood clot reliably clogs the wound, stopping the bleeding.

After the damaged area heals, the blocking clot dissolves on its own.

If the coagulation system fails, self-dissolution does not occur; the blood clot remains attached to former place vascular injury. The lower extremities are at greatest risk of thrombophlebitis. The body perceives an unresolved blood clot as foreign body. And, trying to get rid of it, the immune system provokes an inflammatory process in the area where the blockage is localized with the formation of fibrin fibers. This leads to the fact that the primary thrombus begins to grow due to the layering of thrombotic masses. This is how thrombosis of the arteries of the lower extremities develops gradually.

Causes of thrombocytosis and its types

Infections, especially septic and pustular ones, often become the culprits of thrombosis. This phenomenon is explained by the fact that bacteria lead to the methodical destruction of the internal layers of blood vessels and also make the blood fluid more viscous.

For bacterial and viral infection pathogenic substances are released that lead to blood clots in the legs:

1. Primary thrombosis of the lower extremities is caused by tumor processes in the bone marrow, when platelets are produced in excess. Scientists tend to believe that the cause of thrombosis lies in gene mutations. To congenital anomalies vascular system include atrophy of valves in the veins, underdevelopment of the elastic layer of the venous walls, varicose veins, fistulas between deep arteries and veins. Such congenital abnormalities are fraught with stagnation and slowing of blood flow, which becomes the cause of thrombosis.
2. Secondary leg thrombosis is also characterized by excess platelet production. But unlike the primary one, the occurrence of reactive thrombosis of the extremities is facilitated by various diseases. Pathologies that provoke secondary thrombocytosis are the following: tumors of certain organs, removal of the spleen, blood loss, inflammatory processes, bone fractures, taking glucocorticosteroids.
3. Ileofemoral arterial thrombosis is one of the most severe forms of venous pathology. With such thrombosis of the veins in the legs, the femoral and iliatric vessels are blocked by thrombotic masses.

The formation of blood clots in the legs is more common in older people, with the exception of secondary thrombosis, which is more often observed in childhood. Arises reactive thrombocytosis children in the background iron deficiency anemia or with splenic atrophy. Such thrombosis is more common in women when we're talking about about hormonal disorders, taking contraceptive medications or due to pathologies during pregnancy. Among men, those who abuse fatty foods of animal origin, alcohol and smoking are prone to thrombosis. Severe sports and physical overload, physical inactivity, and obesity also contribute to the appearance of blood clots in the legs.

Signs of thrombosis

Symptoms of thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities are often not detected at all initial stages development of blood clots in the legs. Only over time, when leg vein clots reach critical sizes, does a person begin to notice signs of thrombosis. On late stages When leg thrombosis is detected, the symptoms become very noticeable and tangible. At this stage of pathogenesis, urgent and drastic measures will most likely be required to eliminate the deadly threat. Therefore, it is better to monitor the condition of your body and, if you are prone to thrombosis, especially of the lower extremities, periodically take tests for the level of platelets in the bloodstream and other preventive measures.

With thrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities, the symptoms are very different.

Common signs of a blood clot in the leg:

• With thrombosis, the legs often hurt.
• There is a feeling of goosebumps, accompanied by numbness in the legs, as if you had to sit through it.
• There is a feeling of stiffness, heaviness, and swelling in the muscles.
• Observed in the area of ​​thrombus formation.
• Pallor or blue discoloration of the lower limb.
• The skin in the affected area swells and becomes glossy with a shiny tint.
• Thrombosis provokes swelling. Its volume depends on how blocked the vessel is; the smaller the lumen remains, the more the area where the blood clot is located on the leg swells.

The above symptoms of a blood clot in the leg may be accompanied by a strong increase in body temperature. In the presence of a blood clot in the leg, symptoms also occur in the form of bulging, engorged veins, and in addition, the leg, where the vascular passage is blocked, usually feels colder than the healthy limb. This is due to the lack of blood flow to certain areas, which can lead to tissue necrosis and gangrene.

The most terrible development of events can be seen in acute venous thrombosis of the lower extremities. If a blood clot breaks off in the leg, then moving along the bloodstream, it can enter any organ. Typically, death occurs when a blood clot enters the heart or lungs. In a situation where a blood clot can suddenly break away, then the consequences of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities, as a rule, are strokes, heart attacks, paralysis, and pulmonary embolism.

Only a doctor should diagnose symptoms and treat thrombosis, after drawing up a complete clinical picture. The recommendations of the attending physician must be followed strictly. Because most often blood clots on the legs are discovered in the later stages, and in such a situation the well-known expression that delay is like death is very appropriate.

Treatment of thrombosis

How to treat blood clots in the legs? When thrombosis of the lower extremities appears, it is better not to delay treatment. At the initial stage it is always easier, faster and cheaper to get rid of the pathology, preventing the development serious consequences. There are many ways to treat thrombosis, although the best of them are still preventive measures.

Treatment methods for thrombosis of the lower extremities are:

• Medicinal.
• Instrumental.
• Non-medicinal.

Surgery for thrombosis in the leg is inevitable in neglected form. If the patient has no contraindications to surgery, then drastic measures can be taken to eliminate the blood clot from the vessel (thrombectomy), install a specialized filter, or fix the blood clot by piercing the venous trunk with metal clips or by installing a clamp.

Treatment of leg thrombosis with the help of pharmacological agents is effective in combination with non-invasive medications using fixing bandages or compression garments. Reliable fixation of the affected areas of the legs with thrombophlebitis helps eliminate painful sensations, swelling.

Special compression garments improve blood circulation in the legs.

Mostly action medications is aimed at reducing thrombin activity and the production of antithrombin, which helps maintain the bloodstream in a liquid consistency. Medicines prescribed for thrombosis of the lower extremities:

• Direct and indirect anticoagulants.
• Hemorheological active medicine.
• Nonspecific anti-inflammatory tablets.
• Thrombolytics are drugs that dissolve blood clots. Enzymes are also able to dissolve blood clots, more precisely fibrin fibers, which helps reduce the number of blood clots.

Alternative treatment of thrombocytosis can serve as an addition to the main therapy. Among useful herbs The most effective for thrombosis in the lower extremities can be identified:

• White acacia.
• Verbena officinalis.
• Hop cones.

A very effective folk remedy is to take courses of onions with honey. Natural anticoagulants that prevent blood clots in the lower extremities are found in abundance in onion juice and are significantly stronger than aspirin. To prepare such a drug, you will need to squeeze out a glass of onion juice and add the same amount of honey to it. Infuse the mixture in a closed glass container for about three days in the room, and then ten days in the refrigerator. Take one tablespoon up to three times daily. When the mixture runs out, take a week's break and you can repeat the course.

People prone to the formation of blood clots in the lower extremities should definitely monitor their diet and follow drinking regime. Products consumed as food are allowed mainly those that help reduce blood viscosity. Among them, the most effective are: garlic, ginger, onions, cherry and cranberry juice or fruit drink. The daily diet should be dominated by foods containing antioxidants, flavonoids, and plant fiber. This method of nutrition will help in the fight against blood clots in the lower extremities, as well as other congenital and acquired pathologies.

Venous thrombosis is a pathological condition in which blood clots form inside the vessels. These are blood clots in the cavities of blood vessels; they are formed when the blood vessels are damaged or due to a blood clot. Most often, a blood clot appears in a vein in the leg. Treatment will be described in this article.

Reasons for education

The main one is the inflammatory process, which leads to a disturbance in the composition of the blood. Due to inflammation, the walls of blood vessels expand, and varicose veins begin.

What does a blood clot in a vein in the leg look like? The photo is presented below.

The reasons for the onset of inflammation have not been established; there are several provoking factors that contribute to their appearance:

• old age;
• hereditary predisposition;
• late pregnancy, when weight increases significantly;
• excess weight;
• toxic effects of alcohol, smoking and canned food;
• lifting weights.

As a result, blood clots form in the veins of the legs. Treatment will be successful in the initial stages.

Signs of blood clots

Varicose veins are asymptomatic and painless. So when they appear visible signs disease, then you have to fight the already formed and advanced form.

To prevent complications that may arise fatal, you need to know the signs of an impending illness:

• heavy legs at the end of the day;
• pain in the calf muscles;
• distension in the veins;
• swelling of the legs;
• change in skin color, blueness;
• inflammation of the knee joints.

These are the signs of a diagnosis of a blood clot in a vein in the leg.

Consequences of blood clots in the body

In addition to cosmetic inconveniences, when the veins in the legs begin to protrude and change color, this disease has very serious consequences.

There are several stages of the disease:

• the appearance of spider veins;
• the appearance of subcutaneous dilated veins;
• constant swelling;
• bluish skin;
• formation of closed venous ulcers;
• the appearance of open venous ulcers.

What are the dangers of a blood clot in a vein in the leg? This question worries many.

It is impossible to prevent thrombus migration in the vascular bed. When a vein is blocked, it often occurs instant death. IN best case scenario due to disruption of cellular nutrition, the structure and function of the vessel will be disrupted and lead to its death. This complication can result in paralysis, heart attack, or stroke.

This is dangerous because of a blood clot in a vein in the leg.

Treatment with folk remedies

At the beginning of the disease, you need to take care of two things: stop the inflammation and normalize already deformed veins.

The first part of the treatment is the most difficult. After all, any disease in the body begins with inflammatory process, which is not always possible to stop. It is he who turns our diseases into chronic ones. There are several ways to suppress inflammatory processes:

• starvation;
• healing nutrition;
• the use of decoctions of medicinal herbs;
• the use of medicinal leeches or bees;
• intake of mineral waters.

These are potent drugs that have no side effects (if you are not allergic to bees or herbs).

All this can prevent a blood clot in a vein in the leg, the symptoms of which are not only unpleasant, but also dangerous.

The founders of natural therapy, Arnold Ehret and Galina Shatalova, believed that there is no disease that cannot be cured by hunger. This is a scalpel in the hands of nature, which cleanses the body of all foreign substances. Fasting should be practiced under the supervision of doctors.

The essence of healing nutrition

Healing nutrition is aimed at strengthening the body and getting rid of toxins and poisons. It should be focused on losing weight, strengthening the walls of blood vessels and reducing blood viscosity. It is necessary to increase the consumption of foods that can cleanse and thin the blood:

• linseed and olive oils;
• onions and garlic;
• apple cider vinegar;
• vegetable juices;
• cranberry and lemon;
• nuts, seeds, sprouted wheat grains.

Then the blood clot in the vein in the leg and its consequences will not affect the person.

You need to drink a lot of water and herbal decoctions. Consuming fresh vegetables helps the body receive sufficient amounts of vitamins, antioxidants and flavonoids, which help strengthen blood vessels.

Herbs for thinning the blood: horse chestnut, sweet clover, wormwood, meadowsweet, licorice root, willow bark, chicory, hazel, lungwort, red clover. They are consumed in the form of decoctions several times a day during the course of treatment.

Wrap

Wrapping (application) of legs with gauze soaked herbal infusions. First, use a mixture of herbs to relieve inflammation - chamomile, St. John's wort, sage, plantain. Soak gauze in the broth, wrap the leg completely, wrap the gauze on top and tie it for 4 hours during the day or 8 hours at night. Two procedures are performed during the day with a 2-hour break and one at night. The course of treatment is at least 3 weeks.

After the inflammation is relieved, a course of applications is carried out to strengthen the veins, using decoctions of oak bark, acorns, white willow bark, and chestnut fruits.

Restore the elasticity of the affected veins with a third course, in which they massage the legs with a 2% solution apple cider vinegar 1 time per day.

Saline dressings dissolve blood clots very effectively - 1 tbsp. salt is dissolved in 1 liter of water, the bandage is applied 2 times a day for 3 hours.

A mixture of 200 g onions, 100 g garlic, 100 g honey, 50 g lemon juice stored in the refrigerator. Take 1 tsp. 3 times a day to dissolve blood clots.

Rubbing your feet with Kalanchoe tincture with vodka has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. 2 tbsp. 200 ml of chopped leaves are infused for 5 days. Rub in for 3 months. Also helps a lot alcohol tincture white acacia.

Compresses differ from wraps in the technique of making a bandage. They must be insulated to enhance the effects of the medicinal substance. Bodyagi compresses are kept on the leg for at least 2 hours.

Baths of mineral water, decoction of medicinal herbs, turpentine or salt improve the condition of the skin and blood vessels, and relieve inflammation.

If a blood clot appears in a vein in the leg, treatment with folk remedies is very effective.

Use of balms and ointments

Balms and ointments are rubbed into the sore leg twice a day. Shilajit ointment is made by diluting it in Vaseline in a ratio of 1:5. The composition is applied to the foot twice a day. Pure mumiyo is taken orally as a tincture: 8 g dissolved in 0.5 liters of water.

Medicinal leeches can relieve the exacerbation of the disease within several sessions. The presence of the substance hirudin in their saliva leads to blood thinning, the resorption of blood clots, and the removal of swelling. Course duration is 5-10 procedures.

Mineral waters with hydrogen sulfide, radon, and carbon dioxide have a complex and gentle effect on the skin, nervous system, relieve tension and inflammation. Treatment is carried out by drinking mineral water and taking baths.

Just like in official medicine, when using folk remedies a comprehensive approach to treating the disease is necessary.

The effect of natural remedies is always mild and not immediately noticeable after the first cycle of treatment. The disease undermines a person for years. To achieve the opposite effect and get rid of it, you need to be patient and continue treatment for at least one year.

The great advantage of natural methods of combating disease is that they act on and eliminate the immediate cause of the onset of the disease. What all modern and rather expensive methods cannot achieve official medicine. Surgeries, pills and injections eliminate the consequences without affecting the cause of the disease.

If diagnosed with a blood clot in a vein in the leg, what other treatment can be given?

Medical treatment

Before prescribing treatment, the patient undergoes a complete examination:

• blood tests;
• duplex scanning of veins;
• phlebography of veins;
• phlebomanometry;
• determination of prothrombin time in blood and plasma;
• radiocontrast methods;

These methods make it possible to determine the condition of the veins and whether there are blood clots in the veins of the legs. Treatment (photo of thrombosis is presented above) should be comprehensive.

In case of severe vascular damage, it is carried out surgical removal veins However, if the cause of the disease is not detected and eliminated, surgery will become regular.

Non-surgical treatment of thrombosis lasts up to 4 weeks. Patients are prescribed bed rest with the legs elevated.

Drugs

Initially, injections of Fraxiparin or Heparin are used for anticoagulant therapy, which is aimed at stopping the formation of blood clots.

After a week, the patient is transferred to vitamin K synthesis blockers - Warfarin or Coumadin. The drugs prevent the production of thrombin.

Drugs that affect blood clotting are prescribed: Heparin sodium, Enoxaparin sodium, Nadroparin calcium, Rivaroxaban.

Enzymatic substances that dissolve blood clots are administered using droppers - “Streptokinase”, “Urokinase”.

At the same time, to improve microcirculation and blood properties, the drug “Trental” is administered intravenously.

Voltaren, Indomethacin, Aspirin reduce inflammation, pain and swelling.

In conservative treatment, ointments “Heparin”, “Troxevasin”, “Vishnevsky”, “Ketonal”, “Lioton”, “Diclofenac” are used.

The medication is taken for life. The effectiveness of treatment is strictly monitored using tests.

An operation called thrombectomy removes a blood clot in a vein in the leg. Treatment is not always effective.

When is surgery necessary?

The operation to remove blood clots - thrombectomy - is carried out by cutting them out and removing them from the vessel. It can be carried out traditionally surgically, using radio waves and using a catheter.

The endovascular method (thrombombolectomy) involves removing the thrombus with a catheter while preserving the vessel. This method reduces the risk of complications.

Radio wave thrombectomy is performed for at least an hour under local anesthesia. High-frequency waves remove blood clots without causing negative impact on healthy tissues.

The effect of a treatment session is long-term, but not eternal. Indications for the operation:

• lack of results with conservative treatment;
• severe and painful condition of the patient;
• pregnancy;
• blood clots not attached to the walls of blood vessels (embolism);
• pulmonary embolism.

This is why a blood clot in a vein in the leg is dangerous.

The operation prevents the onset of ischemic stroke, acute disorder blood circulation This is minimally traumatic and very fast operation significantly improves the patient's condition.

It is not always possible to use painless methods modern medicine. Contraindications to the use of the operation:

• severe concomitant diseases;
• in the presence of a malignant tumor or sepsis;
• if the patient cannot tolerate concomitant anticoagulant therapy.

The most important disadvantage of the operation is possible wound infection, bleeding and recurrent thrombosis.

Important! Thrombectomy - temporary and emergency measure, used to relieve pain and restore blood flow. It does not get rid of the cause of the disease.

Recovery after surgery

If we talk about restoring the body after thromboectomy, then it is carried out using a course of tablets:

• Heparin is an anticoagulant that prevents blood clotting.
• "Reopoliglucin" is a blood substitute that promotes the movement of fluids from tissues into the bloodstream.
• "Petoxifylline" is an angioprotector that improves blood microcirculation.

The doctor orders the patient to wear compression stockings 3-4 days, follow your diet and increase your mobility.

After using folk remedies, cleansing fasts, and mineral waters, recovery is not required. After all, these procedures themselves contribute to the healing and cleansing of the body. What should not be forgotten is the necessary frequency of procedures.

Drink herbal infusions and mineral water You need to take courses, starve too. You cannot give up treatment as soon as you feel relief, because the disease will return if you do not cope with it completely.

Preventing blood clots if you are prone to this

Knowing the predisposition to thrombosis, it would be worth taking care rather than waiting for the onset of the disease, and then spending energy and money on fighting it.

An example of this attitude to health can be the American movie star of the first magnitude, Angelina Jolie, who shocked the world with her extraordinary determination. Having a predisposition to cancer, having lost her mother from this disease, she had her uterus, ovaries and breasts removed in anticipation of the disease. Of course, these are too drastic actions. But a very good example in caring about your health.

Parents should not forget that not paying attention to their health means teaching their children the same attitude. And when the child grows up and gets sick, he will not make every effort to recover, but will give up on the illness, expecting a miraculous self-healing and instead receiving a chronic and incurable illness. No parent wants this for their child, but persistently teaches it to him.

Conclusion

Saving a drowning man is the work of the drowning man himself. If a person gets sick, those around him sympathize and wish him a speedy recovery. Doctors provide assistance to the best of their ability. But only the person himself can decide whether he will fight the disease or let it take its course.

After reading in the Bolshoi medical encyclopedia“the cause of all existing diseases, after drinking a bunch of pills and not getting relief, a person usually resigns himself and stops fighting, looking for a way to salvation, protecting his life.

We looked at the reasons why blood clots occur in the veins of the legs, and treatment is also described.

Vein thrombosis– this is the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) in the lumen of a vessel, which leads to impaired circulation in this area. The disease is manifested by bursting pain, redness and swelling. General condition the person does not deteriorate much. In 80% of cases, the disease is asymptomatic, but a blood clot can cause a fatal complication - pulmonary embolism.

According to statistics from the World Health Organization, every fourth person on the planet is at risk of developing a blood clot. Every year, thrombosis is diagnosed in 160 people for every 100 thousand population. In Russia alone, 240,000 people fall ill every year.

Vein thrombosis is considered more of a “female” disease. The beautiful half of humanity suffers from this pathology 5-6 times more often than men. The reason for this is high level female hormones, intake hormonal contraceptives and pregnancy.

Overweight people are also at great risk. Doctors say that after 40 years, with obesity of 3-4 degrees, the likelihood of a blood clot increases 5 times.

Blood clots can appear in the arteries, veins and capillaries of any organ. But most often the veins of the lower extremities, especially the lower legs, are affected. In most cases, blood clots are located near the wall (parietal), but they can also completely block the lumen (obstructive blood clots).

It must be remembered that the process of blood clot formation is a protective mechanism. Without it, we would die from loss of blood even after a minor injury. The blood coagulates, forming clots of platelets and collagen. They clog damaged vessels, stopping bleeding. When the wound heals, such blood clots resolve on their own. Problems arise if the balance of the blood coagulation and anticoagulation systems is disturbed.

Anatomy of veins

Vein- This is a vessel through which blood flows from organs to the heart. Blood enters the vein from capillaries, which collect blood from organs and tissues. Veins form a branched venous network. Often the vessels are connected to each other (anastomized). This allows blood to flow around the area blocked by the thrombus. But through such anastomoses, a blood clot can penetrate from the superficial veins to the deep ones, and from there to the heart and brain.

The vein wall has several layers:

1. Inner lining of veins(intimacy):
   • endothelial cell layer that come into contact with blood. Their function is to prevent blood clots and prevent blood clots from attaching to the vein wall. To do this, cells produce a special substance - prostacyclin.
   • layer of thin elastic membrane made of fibers connective tissue.
2. Median tunica veins consists of smooth muscles. Muscle fibers there are few in the vein and they are located in bunches rather than in a continuous layer. Because of this, the veins collapse if there is little blood in them and easily stretch and expand when overflowing with blood. In the veins of bones, liver, spleen, brain and retina, the muscle layer is absent.
3. Outer shell(adventitia) is the thickest. Its function is to protect the vein from damage. It consists of a dense layer of elastic and collagen fibers of connective tissue, in which nerves and blood vessels pass. The outside of the vein is covered with a layer of loose connective tissue, with the help of which it is fixed to the muscles and organs.

Valves- These are outgrowths of the inner lining of the vein. They are playing important role in the movement of blood towards the heart, but often it is near them that blood clots appear. The structure of the valves resembles paired valves or pockets.

Factors that prevent the formation of blood clots

13 factors (substances or enzymes) are responsible for blood clotting. Each of them has a counterweight (inhibitor), a substance that stops the action of the clotting factor. It is these inhibitors that make up the blood anticoagulation system. Its function is to maintain blood in a liquid form and protect blood vessels from the formation of blood clots.

Components of the anticoagulant system:

1. Anticoagulants – substances that inhibit the production of fibrin in the body
   • Primary anticoagulants, which are constantly contained in the blood, preventing platelets from sticking together. These are antithrombin III, heparin, a 1 -antitrypsin, a 2 -macroglobulin, protein C, protein S, thrombomodulin, etc.
   • Secondary anticoagulants. These substances are formed when the blood has already begun to clot. They stop this process. These include: antithrombin I (fibrin), antithrombin IX, auto-II anticoagulant, etc.
2. Fibrinolysis system. Its main component is plasmin. It is responsible for the breakdown of fibrin fibers, which make up the basis of the blood clot.

The main fighter of the anticoagulant system is antithrombin III. This substance constantly circulates in the blood. It finds thrombin (the main enzyme that triggers the formation of a blood clot) and neutralizes it. Also plays an important role heparin produced by the liver. It also reduces thrombin activity.

Fibrin S lines the veins from the inside. Its task is to prevent blood cells from adhering to the venous wall, preventing its damage and improving blood flow.

Deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities

Deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities– a disease in which blood clots occur in the deep veins located under the muscles. Blockage of deep vessels occurs in 10-15% of cases of thrombosis.

A blood clot most often forms in the deep veins of the leg. In the first 3-4 days, the clot is weakly attached to the wall of the vessel. During this period, it can easily come off.

After about a week, inflammation of the vein wall begins around the blood clot - thrombophlebitis. During this period, the blood clot hardens and attaches to the wall of the vessel. Inflammation causes new blood clots to appear higher along the vein. Despite the involvement of large areas of the vein, the disease is often asymptomatic.

Causes of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities

1. Congenital vascular anomalies:
   • congenital or acquired insufficiency of venous valves,
   • underdevelopment of the muscular or elastic membrane of the vein wall;
   • congenital varicose veins;
   • congenital fistulas between deep veins and arteries.
   These developmental features of veins lead to slow blood flow and stagnation in the veins. In this case, platelets easily stick together, forming a blood clot.
2. Oncological diseases
   • stomach cancer;
   • pancreatic cancer;
   • lung cancer;
   • malignant tumors small pelvis.
   In people with cancer, metabolism is disrupted and blood clotting increases. Chemotherapy leads to damage to the inner lining of blood vessels, thereby activating substances that thicken the blood. What makes the situation worse is that cancer patients move little and are often completely bedridden.
3. Hormonal disorders
   • disorders of the sex glands;
   • use of combined oral contraceptives (COCs);
   • hormonal imbalance during pregnancy.
   Increased levels of female sex hormones cause blood thickening. Progesterone, which stops bleeding during menstruation, can cause blood clots. And estrogen is able to activate fibrinogen and prothrombin, whose role in the formation of blood clots is very large.
4. Obesity . Fat cells produce the hormone leptin, which is similar to female sex hormones. Leptin acts on sensitive receptors on the surface of platelets, causing them to stick together.
5. Consequences of surgical operations . After surgery, 30% of people over 40 years of age are diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis. A lot of tissue thromboplastin enters the blood. This substance causes blood clotting.
6. Fractures . Tissue thromboplastin (one of the blood clotting factors) enters the bloodstream and triggers a cascade of reactions leading to the formation of blood clots.
7. Paraplegics . Impaired movement of the lower extremities can be a consequence of injury or stroke. As a result, the innervation and nutrition of the vein walls deteriorates, which disrupts its functioning. In addition, the movement of blood through the veins largely depends on the work of the muscles. Therefore, if the muscles do not push the blood through, it stagnates, stretching the veins.
8. Infections
   • sepsis;
   • pneumonia;
   • purulent wounds, abscesses.
   Bacteria make the blood more viscous and damage the inner lining of the veins. They cause the release of substances that lead to the formation of a blood clot.

To risk factors deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities include:

• age over 40 years;
• frequent flights or trips that last more than 4 hours;
• “standing” or “sedentary” work;
• heavy physical activity, sports;
• smoking.

Mechanism of thrombus formation

The mechanism of thrombus formation is described by Virchow's triad.

1. Damage to the wall of a blood vessel. The inner lining of the vein can be torn as a result of injury, damaged by allergens or microorganisms. Compressing or stretching a vein also disrupts the endothelial cells of the vessel.
2. Increased blood clotting. Damage to the vessel causes tissue thromboplastin and thrombin to enter the blood. These protein elastic fibers hold the blood cells together in the clot and activate the formation of other substances that increase blood viscosity. An increased concentration of platelets and red blood cells is also dangerous.
3. Slowing down blood flow . A decrease in blood speed in people who are forced to remain in bed, sit or stand for long periods of time at work, or wear a plaster cast. Atherosclerotic plaques and disruption of the venous valves create vortex flows that form lumps of blood cells.

Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis

Subjective symptoms or how you feel about thrombosis
Objective symptoms or what the doctor sees

• swelling of the lower leg or entire limb;
• the skin of the affected leg becomes shiny, glossy;
• bluish skin tone;
• the saphenous veins are filled with blood from the deep veins and are clearly visible;
• To the touch, the diseased limb seems colder than the healthy one.

Diagnostics

Functional tests

Samples - these studies help the doctor determine the presence of a blood clot during an objective examination, even without equipment.

Lowenberg's sign

The doctor makes a test with a cuff from a measuring device blood pressure. The cuff is placed above the knee. Signs of vein blockage: at a value of 80-100 mm Hg. appear below the knee painful sensations. On a healthy lower leg, even compression reaches 150-180 mm Hg. does not cause pain.

Marching test

Place on the leg from the toes to the groin elastic bandage. You will be asked to walk around for a few minutes, then the bandage will be removed.

Signs of thrombosis:

• bursting pain in the legs;
• not collapsed dilated saphenous veins.

Pratt-1 test

You will be asked to lie down, your calf circumference will be measured and the superficial veins will be drained using massage. After this, the doctor applies an elastic bandage, starting from the fingers. Thus, it compresses the subcutaneous vessels and directs blood into deep veins. You will be asked to walk for 10 minutes, then the bandage will be removed.

Signs of deep vein thrombosis

• appear discomfort, pain in the lower leg - signs of impaired outflow through the deep veins;
• the volume of the lower leg increases due to blood stagnation.

Homans test.

You lie on your back, knees bent. The doctor will ask you to flex your foot. Signs of deep vein thrombosis:

• the appearance of sharp pallor on the calf;
• severe pain in the calf muscle.

Mayo-Pratt test.

You are lying on the couch, with a bolster under your sore leg. Using massage movements, the doctor drains the superficial veins and applies a tourniquet to the upper third of the thigh. You will be asked to walk with the tourniquet for 30-40 minutes.

Signs of deep vein thrombosis:

• the feeling of fullness in the leg increases;
• pain appears in the lower leg.

Dopplerography

A research method based on the property of ultrasound being reflected from moving blood cells with a changed frequency. As a result, the doctor receives a picture that describes the characteristics of blood movement through the vessels.

Doppler ultrasound is 90% reliable when examining the femoral vein, but examining the deep veins of the leg is less informative.

Doppler ultrasound reveals the following signs of deep vein thrombosis:

• there are no changes in blood movement in the femoral artery during inspiration. This says that the blood clot is between the femoral vein and the heart;
• blood flow in the femoral vein does not increase after the doctor has expelled blood from the veins of the leg. This is evidence that there is a blood clot in the area between the lower leg and thigh;
• the speed of blood movement is slow in the popliteal, femoral and anterior tibial veins. This means that on its way, the blood encounters an obstacle in the form of a blood clot;
• There are differences in the movement of blood through the veins of the right and left legs.

Angiography

The study of veins is called phlebography. This method is based on the injection of an iodine-based contrast agent into a vein. This compound is absolutely harmless to health. It makes the vein clearly visible on x-rays or computed tomography. For the study, a special device is used - an angiograph.

Signs of thrombosis:

• the contrast agent does not penetrate into the vein blocked by a thrombus - the “chopped vein” effect;
• sharp narrowing lumen of the vessel;
• uneven contours of blood vessels indicate varicose veins and the deposition of atherosclerotic plaques on the inner wall of blood vessels;
• mural thrombi look like rounded formations attached to the wall of the vein, not stained with a contrast agent.

Thrombosis of the superficial veins of the lower extremities

Thrombosis of the superficial veins of the lower extremities is the most common form of thrombosis, accounting for 80%. The greater and lesser saphenous veins are most often affected.

Causes of superficial vein thrombosis

1. Varicose veins of the lower extremities.

   Stagnates in the veins large number blood, while the vessels stretch and turn into reservoirs filled with blood. Without movement, blood cells stick together and grow into fibers fibrin.

2. Blood diseases
   • Erythremia is a disease in which the number of blood cells increases and the blood becomes thicker.
   • thrombophilia is a disease in which the number of platelets increases and the tendency to develop blood clots increases.
     These pathologies can be congenital or develop as a result of hypertension and autoimmune diseases.
3. Infectious diseases.
   • scarlet fever;
   • angina;
   • pneumonia;
   • sepsis;
   • mumps.
   Bacteria and viruses can damage the inner lining of veins, thereby activating substances that cause blood clots.
4. Injuries
   • bruises;
   • fractures;
   • burns;
   • frostbite;
   • surgical operations.
   In this case, three factors act at once: during an injury, the vessel wall may be damaged, blood clotting increases, and plaster cast or bed rest leads to slower blood flow.
5. System autoimmune diseases
   • antiphospholipid syndrome (APS);
   • rheumatoid arthritis;
   • systemic vasculitis;
   • systemic lupus erythematosus.
   In case of systemic diseases, the body releases antibodies that attack platelets and cell membranes endothelium lining veins, causing blood clots.
6. Allergic reactions . During allergies, the body experiences complex processes, as a result of which platelet-activating substances are released. And when the inner lining of blood vessels is damaged, other components are released that accelerate the production of fibrin.
7. Metabolic diseases
   • obesity;
   • diabetes mellitus
   Fibrin and fibrinogen are proteins that bind blood cells into a blood clot. And metabolic disorders lead to an increase in their levels. In addition, adipose tissue cells produce the hormone leptin, which causes platelets to stick together.
8. Cardiovascular diseases
   • ischemic disease hearts;
   • varicose veins;
   • hypertension;
   • atherosclerosis;
   • heart rhythm disturbance.
   These diseases lead to a slowdown in blood flow in the veins and venous stagnation. This creates conditions for the formation of blood clots. Atherosclerotic plaques adhere to the walls of the vessel and narrow its lumen. As a result, turbulences appear in the blood flow, which trap blood cells and they settle on top of the plaques.
9. Lung diseases
   • bronchial asthma;
   • chronic obstructive bronchitis.
   Insufficient quantity oxygen causes disturbances in the functioning of the heart and impairs blood circulation. This leads to stagnation of blood in the veins and an increase in the number of blood cells.
10. Oncological diseases . Cancerous tumors cause increased production of cells responsible for blood clotting. Chemotherapy activates the blood coagulation system.

Factors accelerating the development of superficial vein thrombosis

• compression of veins;
• dehydration if you drink less than 1.5-2 liters of fluid per day;
• uncontrolled reception diuretics;
• long bed rest;
• age over 50 years;
• insufficient physical activity;
• reception birth control pills: Diane-35, Jess, Yarina, Zhanine, Novinet.
• smoking.

Mechanism of thrombus formation

1. Damage to the vessel wall. At this point, turbulence is formed, which causes retention of blood cells near the venous wall.
2. Drops of liquid begin to appear on the damaged area of ​​the vein. Platelets and other blood elements stick to them.
3. The intact vein wall and the blood cells have the same charge and therefore repel each other. But if the vein is damaged, it loses its charge and platelets can attach to this area.
4. Tissue thromboplastin is released from the damaged vein. It triggers the formation of other blood clotting factors. Thromboplastin causes the formation of a blood clot.
5. Blood flows around the clot, and its surface gradually becomes overgrown with layers of new platelets.

Symptoms

Superficial veins lie in the subcutaneous fatty tissue at a depth of 0.5-2 cm below the surface of the skin. Due to this arrangement of the vessels, symptoms of superficial vein thrombosis are immediately noticeable. The disease usually begins acutely. This means that everything was fine in the morning, but by the evening signs of thrombosis appeared.

Subjective symptoms that the patient feels

1. Pain along the vein, which intensifies with physical stress.
2. Feeling of heaviness in the leg.
3. Swelling of the lower leg and foot.
4. Redness of the skin over the blood clot.
5. Increased sensitivity of the skin, feeling of “running goosebumps”.
6. Cramps of the calf muscles.

Objective symptoms that the doctor sees during examination

1. Varicose veins (but sometimes a blood clot can appear in an undilated vein).
2. Clearly visible venous network due to its overflow with blood.
3. When pressed, the vein does not collapse, does not turn pale, but remains filled with blood.
4. Seal along the vein. It may be spherical or stretch along the vein.

Diagnosis of saphenous vein thrombosis

To determine the condition of the saphenous veins, use functional tests. They allow you to evaluate the function of the valves, but do not indicate the location of the blood clot.

Brodie-Troyanov-Trendelenburg test.

You lie on your back, your sore leg is elevated. Blood is expelled from her veins with massage movements from her fingers to her groin. A rubber tourniquet is applied to the middle of the thigh. After this you will be asked to stand up.

Rapid filling of the veins below the tourniquet indicates a violation of the veins.

Hackenbruch test

The doctor pinches with his fingers the place where the great saphenous vein flows into the femoral vein and asks you to cough. A disruption is indicated by a push that is created by a reverse wave of blood reflected from a blood clot. The doctor feels this push under his fingers.

Doppler ultrasound or Doppler ultrasound

A painless examination that can be performed many times. To judge the effectiveness of the treatment, it is done once a week. An experienced doctor can determine the characteristics of blood movement, the condition of the walls of the veins and their valves, as well as the presence of a blood clot with an accuracy of 90%.

The study reveals the following signs of saphenous vein thrombosis:

• the vein in which there is a thrombus does not collapse under the pressure of the ultrasound sensor;
• a dense formed thrombus can be seen on the monitor in the form of a round formation or strand;
• in the thrombosed vein, the blood flow is disrupted, the narrowing of the vessel walls is noticeable;
• venous valves in the affected area do not move;
• the area in front of the thrombus is dilated and filled with blood;
• blood flow is slow compared to a healthy leg.

Angiography or venography

A small puncture is made in the vein and a contrast agent is injected through a catheter, which blocks X-rays well. Then an X-ray is taken or computed tomography. The result is a very clear image. thrombosed veins and identify signs of the presence of a blood clot. The main advantage of the procedure is that it allows you to identify even fresh blood clots that are not visible during an ultrasound examination.

In case of thrombosis, angiography reveals the following changes:

• the walls of the vein are uneven, rough;
• the lumen of the vein sharply narrows. The contrast agent can be seen flowing through the narrow opening and around the thrombus;
• near the wall of the vein there is an “unpainted” round formation - a parietal thrombus;
• “stubbed” vein, when the contrast agent does not pass through the affected area. This indicates that the blood clot has completely blocked the vein.

Treatment of vein thrombosis

Treatment of deep vein thrombosis requires bed rest. If a blood clot has formed in the lower leg, then you need to stay in bed for 3-4 days, and if in femoral vein, then 10-12 days.

At the first appointment, the doctor determines the treatment tactics and decides whether you need to be treated in a hospital or can be done at home. If there is a danger that a blood clot may break off and block the pulmonary artery, then surgery will be required.

Drug treatment

Direct anticoagulants: Heparin

The drug is designed to reduce thrombin activity in the blood and accelerate the production of antithrombin III, which helps maintain a fluid state of the blood.

At the beginning of treatment, heparin is administered intravenously at 5000 units. After 3 days, the dose is reduced to 30,000-40,000 units/day. This amount of the drug is divided into 3-6 times and administered subcutaneously.

Every 4 hours, the level of blood clotting is monitored to prevent bleeding or hemorrhages in the internal organs.

Modern low molecular weight heparins more convenient to use, injected subcutaneously into the abdomen. They are well absorbed and less likely to cause bleeding. Used for acute thrombosis Clexane, Fragmin, Fraxiparine. One injection once a day is enough.

Indirect anticoagulants: Warfarin, Coumadin

These drugs inhibit the formation of prothrombin, from which thrombin is subsequently formed. They also reduce the effect of other blood clotting factors that depend on vitamin K. Only a doctor can prescribe these medications and set the dosage. To avoid complications, it will be necessary to periodically monitor blood clotting parameters.

Take 2-10 mg per day (1-3 tablets) depending on the level of blood clotting. The drug is taken 1 time per day at the same time. Remember that if you are taking heparin, aspirin or other blood thinners at the same time, the risk of bleeding increases significantly.

Thrombolytics or enzyme preparations related to anticoagulants: Streptokinase, Urokinase

These medicines designed to dissolve blood clots. Enzymes dissolve fibrin fibers in blood clots and help reduce clots. They also inhibit the effects of substances causing coagulation blood.
The dosage of the drug is determined by the doctor depending on the situation. Thrombolytics are mixed with saline or glucose solution and administered intravenously. The initial dose is 500,000 KIU, then 50,000-100,000 KIU/hour.

Hemorheologically active drugs: Refortan, Reosorbilact, Reopoliglyukin

They improve blood circulation through the capillaries, reduce blood viscosity and prevent platelets from forming clots. These drugs make the blood more liquid and “dilute” it.

Reopolyglucin is administered intravenously at a dose of 400-1000 ml/day. Duration of treatment is 5-10 days.

Nonspecific anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Diclofenac and Ketoprofen

The drugs relieve inflammation in the venous wall and help get rid of pain in the affected limb. In addition, they slightly reduce the risk of platelet aggregation.

The drug is taken 1 capsule (tablet) 2-3 times a day, preferably after meals, so as not to irritate the mucous membrane digestive tract. The course of treatment should not exceed 10-14 days.

Non-drug treatment

To get rid of swelling, pain and improve the functioning of the veins, the sore leg is bandaged with an elastic bandage. This must be done in the morning, before getting out of bed. Use a bandage 3 m long and up to 10 cm wide.

Start bandaging with your fingers, stretching the bandage moderately. Each next round should overlap the previous one by a few centimeters. The bandage can be removed at night.

Instead of a bandage, it is convenient to use special compression socks or stockings. They must be selected strictly according to size, and put on before you get out of bed.

Surgical treatment

Indications for surgery

1. In the area where the blood clot formed, inflammation arose and thrombophlebitis developed.
2. High danger rupture of a blood clot and development of pulmonary embolism.
3. The thrombus spreads up the deep veins.
4. The thrombus is not attached to the vein wall (floating thrombus).

Contraindications for surgery

1. The acute stage of thrombosis, when there is a risk of new postoperative blood clots.
2. Serious illnesses cardiovascular system.
3. Acute period infectious diseases.

Types of operations

Troyanov–Trendellenburg operation

The surgeon stitches the trunk of the great saphenous vein with metal clips or places a special clamp on it so that blood can pass through the remaining holes. This is necessary to ensure that the blood clot does not spread further to the femoral vein.

Installation of a vena cava filter

A filter trap resembling an umbrella frame is installed in the inferior vena cava. It allows blood to pass through, but traps blood clots, preventing them from reaching the heart, brain and lungs. Disadvantage of the method: if a large blood clot gets into the filter, the blood flow through the vein will be blocked, and the filter will have to be urgently removed.

Thrombectomy – surgery to remove a blood clot from a vein

It is carried out in the first 7 days after the formation of a blood clot, until it adheres to the walls of the vessel. A small hole is made in the groin through which the surgeon inserts a catheter (a thin, hollow tube). With its help it is possible to remove the blood clot. Disadvantage of the operation: a blood clot can form again in the same place due to damage to the inner lining of the vein.

Diet for vein thrombosis

Dietary nutrition for thrombosis is aimed at achieving 3 goals:

• weight loss;
• strengthening the walls of blood vessels;
• decreased blood viscosity.

Nutritionists have developed row re recommendations for people suffering from thrombosis.

1. Drink at least 2 liters of fluid per day.
2. Eat plant fiber: vegetables, fruits, bran.
3. Include foods rich in antioxidants in your diet to protect the lining of blood vessels:
   • vitamin C: rose hips, black currants, sweet peppers, white cabbage, sea buckthorn, spinach, garlic, citrus fruits, dill, parsley.
   • vitamin E: sprouted wheat grains, sunflower seeds, avocados, nuts, liver, mint leaves, asparagus, bran, broccoli, peas, beans, corn and olive oil, fish oil and fatty fish.
   • beta-carotene: pine nuts, pineapples, carrots, sorrel, greens, beef liver, watermelon.
4. Flavonoids strengthen the heart and the walls of blood vessels, increase their tone and eliminate blood stagnation. These include:
   • rutin or vitamin P: spinach, strawberries, blackberries, apricots, raspberries, buckwheat, walnuts, cabbage, lettuce, tomatoes, grapes, green tea leaves, rue.
   • hesperidin: tangerines, rose hips, blackberries.
5. Copper is necessary for the synthesis of elastin, which strengthens the walls of blood vessels. There is a lot of it in beef liver and seafood: squid, shrimp, crabs, mussels.
6. Onions, garlic, ginger, cherries, cranberries and blueberries are especially useful for thinning the blood.

A number of products will have to be limited:

1. Animal fats. There are many of them in sausages, frankfurters, butter, scrambled eggs, poultry skin, duck and pork lard.
2. Cream, concentrated milk, fatty cheeses, sour cream.
3. Confectionery: buttercream cakes, pastries, biscuits, chocolates and toffees, ice cream.
4. Deep-fried dishes: chips, french fries.
5. Coffee, chocolate.
6. Mayonnaise, cream sauces.
7. Alcohol.

Traditional methods of treating vein thrombosis

Verbena officinalis contains glycosides verbenaline and verbenin, as well as essential oil and silicic acid salts. These substances prevent the formation of blood clots and promote the resorption of blood clots.

Infusion of verbena flowers. 1 tablespoon of dried flowers is poured into 2 cups of boiling water and brought to a boil. After this, remove from the heat and let it brew for an hour. Take 2 tablespoons of infusion 3 times a day before meals. You need to drink the infusion for 2-3 months.

White acacia contains many esters of salicylic acid, which reduces blood clotting. Essential oils and tannins help improve vein tone.

To prepare the tincture, take fresh or dried acacia flowers and grind them. Fill the jar 1/5 full and fill it with vodka or 60% alcohol. Leave to infuse in a dark place for 7 days. Wipe the skin along the vein with the tincture 2 times a day. Take 5 drops orally 3-4 times a day. Duration of treatment is 2-4 weeks.

Hop cones contain phytoncides, polyphenols, organic acids, gum and essential oils. This plant perfectly calms and improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system.

To prepare the decoction, take 2 tbsp. hop inflorescences, pour 0.5 liters of water, bring to a boil and boil for 5 minutes. Leave in a warm place for 2 hours. Take 1/2 cup 4 times a day on an empty stomach. The course of treatment is 3-4 weeks.

Onion juice and honey. Onions contain natural anticoagulants that prevent the formation of blood clots. Scientists have proven that they are more effective than aspirin.

Grind onions and squeeze out a glass of juice. Mix with a glass of honey and leave to infuse for 3 days at room temperature, and then 10 days in the refrigerator. Take 1 tbsp. 3 times a day. After the medicine runs out, take a break of 5 days and repeat the course.

What is acute venous thrombosis?

Acute venous thrombosis is a disease caused by the appearance of a blood clot in the lumen of a vein. Thrombosis can be accompanied by inflammation of the vein - thrombophlebitis.

Most often, acute thrombosis occurs in the veins of the lower extremities. Blood clots may appear in the saphenous or deep veins. In this case, the blood flow through the vessel is partially or completely blocked.

Acute venous thrombosis occurs when three factors act on the body at once: damage to the vein wall, disruption of blood flow and increased blood clotting.

Signs of acute venous thrombosis:

• bursting pain;
• heaviness in the leg;
• rapidly increasing swelling of the limb;
• if the thrombus is located in superficial veins, then the skin above it turns red, and if in deep veins, then the leg turns pale and acquires a bluish tint.

For the treatment of acute venous thrombosis, heparin is used for 7-10 days, antiplatelet agents ( Acetylsalicylic acid, Curantil) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac and Ketoprofen). If drug treatment does not bring results, the blood clot is removed surgically or a vena cava filter is installed in the vein, designed to prevent the clot from entering the vessels of the lungs and brain.

What does a leg look like with vein thrombosis?

With saphenous vein thrombosis, the symptoms of the disease are clearly visible:

• a swollen, nodular vein is visible under the skin;
• the thrombus looks like a round or tortuous compaction blue;
• the skin around the blood clot is red and swollen;
• the small surrounding veins are filled with blood and are clearly visible under the skin in the form of blue sinuous lines.

How to prevent venous thrombosis?

• Drink more fluids.
• If you have a “sedentary” or “standing” job, then take a 5-minute break every hour to stretch your legs:
  • walk up the steps;
  • rise on your toes several times;
  • rotate your feet;
  • sit back in your chair and put your feet up on the table.
• Give your feet a massage. Start with your fingers. Using stroking movements, stimulate the movement of blood up the veins.
• Do it every day hiking, minimum 30 minutes.
• At the end of the day, take a foot bath or contrast shower at a comfortable temperature for 5-10 minutes.
• Eat right. Eat more plant-based foods to avoid constipation and excess weight.
• After surgery or a serious illness, try to get back on your feet as soon as your doctor allows.
• Care for bedridden patients must be provided proper care: massage, passive gymnastics, roller underfoot.
• Stop smoking.
• Use compression hosiery or an elastic bandage to improve blood flow in the veins. This is especially true for people with varicose veins.
• The most effective means counts drug prophylaxis. Aspirin is widely used for these purposes, and Warfarin is recommended before and after surgery. People with a high risk of blood clots are prescribed low molecular weight heparins: Tinzaparin, Danaparoid.

Venous thrombosis of the lower extremities is a common and dangerous disease, but you have the power to protect yourself and your loved ones from it.