What is DVT/PE?

What is deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition in which a blood clot forms in a deep vein, most commonly occurring in the calf or thigh.

 

What is pulmonary embolism (PE)?

Pulmonary embolism occurs when part of the blood clot breaks off and travels to the lungs. PE can result in a medical emergency and cause serious illness or death.

 

What is Venous Thromboembolism (VTE)?

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) describes the general process of blood clot formation in veins. DVT and PE are both forms of VTE. Blood clots in the arms or legs, even without a PE, may cause significant chronic complications including swelling, discomfort and severe pain that require medical treatment.

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DVT and PE are serious, life-threatening conditions
that can be prevented by the use of a sequential compression device (SCD),
such as the Medshoola™ compression pump.

Are YOU At Risk?

While DVT/PE/VTE is more common over the age of 50 in patients with certain risk factors, even young, elite athletes can be affected. Serena Williams, the world’s best female tennis player, was hospitalized and treated for a nearly fatal PE.

Major Risk Factors for DVT and PE:

  • >50 years of age
  • Past or family history of DV, PE, and VTE
  • Surgery
  • Lymphedema
  • Heart and lung disease
  • Anyone sitting for more than 2 hours without moving
  • Recent hospitalization
  • Frequent travel (for work or pleasure)
  • Tobacco use
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy or the first few weeks after delivery
  • Athletes traveling immediately after events (especially if they are dehydrated)
  • History of stroke
  • Birth control pill/injection use
  • Long flights
  • Cancer
  • Hormone replacement
  • Trauma to your arms or legs (broken bones and dislocations)

What are the signs and symptoms of DVT?

Swelling in your leg or arm, localized pain or tenderness, firm or shiny skin from swelling, and red or bluish skin discoloration can all be signs of DVT.

What are the signs and symptoms of PE?

Sudden shortness of breath, extremely sharp or stabbing chest pain (could get worse with each breath), rapid heart rate, and unfortunately sudden death can all occur with a PE.

What are the signs and symptoms of VTE?

While minor VTE disease can be asymptomatic, any combination of symptoms of DVT and PE can occur including sudden death.

Is there a treatment?

Signs and symptoms of DVT/PE/VTE require immediate medical attention. Treatment options range from drugs that address blood clot formation to filters surgically inserted into the vena cava (the large vein in your chest) to prevent a fatal PE. Prompt treatment may save your life, so it is vital that you seek care as soon as possible.

PE and DVT CAN be prevented!!

Doctors Livermore, Mirza, and Siddique developed the Medshoola™ Compression Pump expressly for this purpose. It is…

  • An EASY to use device that can be used on your arms or legs
  • Lightweight and portable so you can take it where life takes you
  • Provided with an FAA approved battery for use during air travel
  • Completely mobile between charges
  • Programmable for DVT or lymphedema management
  • Provided with a rechargeable battery for over 10 hours of operation
  • A medically proven treatment for a potentially fatal condition