Is Heat Good for Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Heat therapy or providing heat compression for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is effective in treating the illness. Application of the heat ensures that there is a reduction in the swelling, the pain, and the discomfort that an individual is feeling. An important aspect of using heat for treating deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is that it is simple for preparation. An individual can use a hot compress, bottle filled with warm water, hot water pad, or even a warm towel to reduce the swelling and the pain. Another option that the individual can opt for is by soaking the legs in a bucket filled with warm water for about 15 minutes.

Deep vein thrombosis is a condition where the individual experiences blood clot inside the deep vein. Neglecting the situation leads to death as it interferes with the circulation of the blood flow. Interference of the lump with the distribution of the blood leads to breaking off from the regular chain of circulation and enters into the bloodstream, where it causes blockage and narrows the stream making it impossible for the important organs such as brain, heart, lungs, and others to receive the appropriate levels of oxygen. Due to the cut-off of oxygen level, improper functioning begins, making it difficult for the individual to handle the situation, which eventually ends up in death.

Understanding keenly about the risk factors will be helpful in preventing the appearance of deep vein thrombosis or DVT. Additionally, as many of the risk factors do not respond to heat therapy alone, one can shift towards medical assistance at the earliest in order to prevent the rise in the clot and the increase in chances for death. The following are the common risk factors for the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis or DVT:

• Bed rest or sitting for long periods
• Injury
• Recent surgery
• Age above 40
• Abnormalities caused due to coagulation
• Presence of central venous catheter
• Orthopedic procedures
• Use of contraceptive pills or hormone therapy
• Childbirth in the last six months
• Obesity
• Tobacco usage
• Previous or current symptoms that point towards cancer or heart ailments
• History of miscarriage
• Family history of DVT or deep vein thrombosis.

The following are the common symptoms an individual will experience when he or she possesses deep vein thrombosis:

• Skin discoloration
• Leg fatigue
• veins becoming visible
• Warm skin
• Swelling
• Leg pain

As heat is capable of reducing the blood clot, it does possess the ability to reduce the risk factors of deep vein thrombosis. Reduction in the blood clot makes it feasible for the blood to flow freely through the veins reaching every corner of the body. At the same time, it is necessary for the individual to visit a doctor who would offer complete assistance about the situation. Although heat treatment is a viable option, it may not provide the complete cure.

Depending on the severity of deep vein thrombosis or DVT, the doctor will choose or prescribe appropriate medication that will prevent the occurrence of the blood clot in the vein. It can include exercises, use of medicines, and surgery.

Deep vein thrombosis is fatal. Attending to it in its initial stage will be of immense help. Utilizing heat is good for Deep vein thrombosis, as it will prevent coagulation of blood, which in turn will prevent the occurrence of pulmonary embolism. Even after the treatment, it is essential that the individual carries out the preventive measures in order to avoid the further incident of deep vein thrombosis in future.