Venous Thromboembolism Made Simple

By Richard Quattrocchi

Medical terms may be unclear at times. A long term that I want to explain or simplify is a condition called “Venous Thromboembolism”, also known as VTE.   Put simply, it is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins in one leg that may break off and travel to the lungs, which is fatal in about 1 out of 3 people.  A blood clot in the leg is known as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and a clot in the lungs is called a pulmonary embolism or PE.  Both need medical attention, and a PE is an emergency, so it is important to get help right away.  Venous thromboembolism is the “umbrella” term for DVT and PE, and each represents a different bodily sign of this condition.

Word Breakdown

Venous=vein

Thrombus=blood clot

Embolism=blood clot that breaks away and travels (usually from the leg to the lung)

Watch the short subject video animation of clot formation in the leg:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Watch for these DVT (leg clot) symptoms:

 

Watch for these PE (lung clot) symptoms:

If you experience symptoms seek medical attention immediately!

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