Treating Deep Vein Thrombosis

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot occurring in a deep vein. Hospital and home treatment for DVT both include medications to keep the clot from growing.

Treating DVT in the Hospital

You may be hospitalized for 5–10 days. In the hospital, you’ll be given anticoagulants (commonly called blood thinners). These medications control and prevent further blood clotting. Anticoagulants can be given by IV (intravenous) line, as an injection, or in pill form. Bed rest may be ordered and your leg elevated to reduce swelling. Before going home, you may be fitted with prescription elastic support stockings. These help prevent ongoing leg swelling that can cause tissue damage.

Understanding Your Medication

To keep blood from forming clots, oral anticoagulants must be taken at the same time every day. Make this easier to do by always taking your medication at the same meal each day. While taking anticoagulants, do not use over-the-counter or prescription medications without first checking with your doctor. The combined effect of the drugs may be dangerous.

Mark a calendar as you take each pill to remind yourself that you've taken the medication.

Frequent Blood Tests

Blood tests (called prothrombin time or PT) are done to monitor how well your medication is controlling clotting. Too much medication may cause bleeding, too little may allow clots to form.