What Is Venous Thromboembolism?
A venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a blood clot in a vein.
Doctors link VTE to two serious, potentially life-threatening conditions:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which happens when a blood clot forms in a vein deep below your skin, often in the legs. If a clot breaks loose, it can travel to your heart, lungs, or brain. This blocks blood flow to these vital organs and can lead to life-threatening complications.
- Pulmonary embolism (PE) happens when a blood clot breaks loose and blocks an artery in the lungs, which can be life threatening.
Venous thromboembolism risk factors and causes
You can either inherit or acquire a VTE.
A VTE results from slow movement of blood through the veins, which can stop flowing freely and cause a clot to form.
Anyone can have a VTE, but some risk factors include:
- Being idle during an extended hospital stay.
- Long periods of travel, especially on an airplane.
- History of blood clots.
- Estrogen-based drugs (birth control or hormone replacement therapy).
- Cancer treatment.
- Obesity.
- Pregnancy or recently having a baby.
- Smoking.
Venous thromboembolism complications
VTEs can lead to serious health problems that can be fatal, including PE and stroke.
Treatment and follow-up care are vital to help manage long-term complications, such as:
- Post-thrombotic syndrome.
- Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.
If you or someone else suspects a blood clot, contact a medical professional right away.