Learn About DVT

Learn about Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) from Shakthi, a local Girl Scout Senior who is pursuing their Girl Scout Gold Award.

DVT occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in our body, usually in the legs. Deep vein thrombosis can cause leg pain or swelling, but there are sometimes no noticeable symptoms. If not recognized and treated early, it can lead to a serious life-threatening condition called Pulmonary Embolism (PE). DVT affects 900,000 Americans yearly, and can be exacerbated by long-term travel (travel for more than 4 hours) because of prolonged immobility in a confined car, plane, train, or other modes of transport. Awareness of this condition and how to prevent it can save lives.