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Deep vein thrombosis is the medical term for a blood clot which develops in a deep vein of the leg or pelvic region. Deep vein thrombosis can develop as a result of older age, certain medical conditions, injury, surgery, pregnancy, prolonged inactivity, and estrogen drug treatments, such as HRT and hormonal birth control methods. Studies have recently suggested that women using the Ortho Evra birth control patch may be at a greater risk of developing a potentially fatal blood clot.
With prompt and adequate deep vein thrombosis treatment, blood clots are typically not fatal. There are four main goals of deep vein thrombosis treatment. The first goal of deep vein thrombosis treatment is to prevent the existing blood clot from getting any larger. The second objective of deep vein thrombosis treatment is to prevent new clots from forming. Deep vein thrombosis treatment also aims to prevent serious complications like pulmonary embolism (when the clot travels to the lungs) and post-thrombotic syndrome (chronic pain and swelling in the legs).
Anticoagulants are the most effective deep vein thrombosis treatment drugs available. These drugs lower the blood’s clotting potential. For many years, the standard deep vein thrombosis treatment was heparin, an intravenous anticoagulant medication. Today, there is an oral anticoagulant medication, called warfarin, available. Typically, a patient will receive intravenous heparin upon commencement of deep vein thrombosis treatment because it takes a few days for the warfarin to provide benefit. Once a patient begins the oral medication, they may continue to take warfarin for months as directed by their physician.
Thrombolytics are another type of deep vein thrombosis treatment drug. These medications work to dissolve the existing blood clot. Because they carry a high risk of bleeding, they are only used when limb or life is threatened. Anticoagulants do not provide this aspect of treatment; they only work to prevent blood clot growth. Together, these two deep vein thrombosis treatment drugs can prevent complications and help a patient recover. It is very important during deep vein thrombosis treatment that a patient be extremely careful not to suffer injury or trauma. These drugs carry the risk of bleeding and lowered clotting ability which is an essential part of the body’s natural response to injury.
In addition to medications, deep vein thrombosis treatment also might involve use of a compression stocking. This garment, worn on the leg, is often tighter at the foot than higher up on the leg. These special garments reduce pain and swelling and lower the risk of post-thrombotic syndrome. Doctors also recommend that a patient keep their leg elevated, exercise regularly, and avoid long stretches of inactivity.
Women who use the Ortho Evra birth control patch may be at an increased risk for deep vein thrombosis and other potentially deadly side effects. If you would like to learn more about deep vein thrombosis treatment or the risks of taking the birth control patch, please contact us to speak with a qualified and experienced attorney in your area.
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