Regardless of the cause, DVT can be particularly dangerous if left untreated. There is a risk that the thrombosis can become dislodged from the deep vein and move through the main veins and heart to lodge in the lungs becoming a potentially fatal Pulmonary Embolism (PE). When symptoms are present, they can be common and vary depending on how much of your lung is involved, the size of the clots, or presence of other heart or lung conditions. If chest pain, shortness of breath, cough, lightheadedness, fast heart rate or faint is present immediate medical attention is required. 

The thrombosis can also cause chronic blockage in deep venous system resulting in permanent valves damage and subsequently leading to long lasting swelling and skin changes at the ankle site (Postthrombotic Syndrome – PTS).  

Early evaluation and diagnosis by a qualified medical professional such as Dr. Marek Sepiolo are of the utmost importance to the successful treatment of DVT.