What causes lower extremity venous thrombosis?

The formation of lower limb venous thrombosis is related to many reasons such as genetics, environmental factors, physiological factors, trauma and pathology, and targeted treatment measures need to be taken according to the specific causes.

1. Genetic factors

Hereditary thrombophilia is one of the important causes of lower extremity venous thrombosis. Some people are born with abnormal coagulation factors, such as antithrombin deficiency, protein C or protein S deficiency, which makes the blood more likely to clot. People with a family history of thrombosis have a significantly increased risk of the disease. For this group of people, it is recommended to have regular blood tests and use anticoagulant drugs for prevention when necessary.

2. Environmental factors

Sitting or standing for long periods of time is a common cause of lower extremity venous thrombosis. Sitting for long periods of time slows blood circulation in the lower extremities, causing blood to accumulate and increasing the risk of thrombosis. Long-distance travel, prolonged bed rest or postoperative immobilization can also increase the risk of disease. It is recommended to avoid maintaining the same posture for a long time, regularly moving the lower extremities, and wearing medical elastic stockings can also help prevent it.

3. Physiological factors

Ageing, obesity and pregnancy are physiological risk factors for lower extremity venous thrombosis. As we age, blood vessel elasticity decreases and blood viscosity increases. Obese people have too much body fat, which compresses blood vessels and affects blood circulation. Pregnant women have obstructed venous return in the lower extremities due to hormonal changes and uterine compression. It is recommended to control weight, exercise appropriately under the guidance of a doctor, and use anticoagulants when necessary.

4. Trauma

Trauma or surgery on the lower limbs may cause endothelial damage, activate the coagulation system, and form blood clots. After fractures, muscle strains, or venous puncture, local blood flow is blocked and the risk of thrombosis increases. After trauma, you should move as soon as possible, avoid prolonged bed rest, and use anticoagulants for prevention if necessary.

5. Pathological factors

Certain diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease increase the risk of lower extremity venous thrombosis. Abnormal coagulation mechanisms in cancer patients, hemodynamic changes in cardiovascular disease patients, and accumulation of toxins in chronic kidney disease patients may all lead to thrombosis. Treatment of the primary disease and the use of anticoagulants are the main measures.

Treatment of lower extremity venous thrombosis includes medication, surgery, and lifestyle adjustments. Medication commonly used includes anticoagulants such as warfarin, rivaroxaban, and dabigatran, and thrombolytic drugs such as urokinase and alteplase. Surgical treatment includes catheter-based thrombolysis, thrombectomy, and venous filter implantation. Lifestyle adjustments include quitting smoking, controlling weight, exercising moderately, and avoiding prolonged sitting.

The formation of lower extremity venous thrombosis is the result of the combined action of multiple factors, and targeted treatment measures should be taken according to the specific cause. Early prevention and timely treatment are the key. It is recommended that high-risk groups have regular check-ups and seek medical treatment in a timely manner when symptoms occur. Through comprehensive treatment and lifestyle adjustments, the risk of thrombosis can be effectively reduced and the quality of life can be improved.