Deep Vein Thrombosis: The Hidden Danger You Can’t Afford to Ignore

When San Antonio Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right shoulder, it sent shockwaves through the sports world. (ESPN) While most people associate DVT with the legs, this case highlights that blood clots can form anywhere in the body, with potentially life-threatening consequences.

At North Texas Vein & Vascular, Dr. Robert Handley is a leading expert in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of DVT and other vascular conditions. As a board-certified vein specialist, he provides state-of-the-art, minimally invasive treatments to help patients manage their vein health and avoid dangerous complications.

What is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?

DVT occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs but sometimes in the arms, shoulders, or other areas. The biggest danger of DVT is that if the clot breaks free and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism (PE)—a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

Recognizing the Symptoms of DVT

DVT can be difficult to detect, as some cases cause no noticeable symptoms. However, when symptoms do appear, they often include:

• Swelling– Usually in one leg or arm.
• Pain or tenderness– Often resembling a muscle cramp, soreness, or aching sensation, particularly in the calf or thigh.
• Warmth in the affected area– The skin may feel unusually warm to the touch.
• Red or discolored skin– The affected limb may take on a reddish or bluish tint.

In Wembanyama’s case, he initially thought his symptoms would subside with rest. However, when his discomfort persisted, medical testing revealed a serious blood clot. Ignoring these warning signs can be dangerous—early diagnosis is key.

Who is at Risk for DVT?

DVT can affect anyone, but certain risk factors increase the chances of developing a blood clot:

• Prolonged immobility– Long flights, sitting for extended periods, or prolonged bed rest.
• Recent surgery or injury– Particularly orthopedic procedures that affect blood circulation.
• Medical conditions– Such as cancer, heart disease, or clotting disorders.
• Hormonal changes– Pregnancy, birth control pills, or hormone replacement therapy.
• Smoking and obesity– Lifestyle factors that negatively impact circulation.

At North Texas Vein & Vascular, Dr. Robert Handley works closely with patients to assess their individual risk factors and develop customized prevention plans to reduce the likelihood of DVT.

Dr. Robert Handley: A Trusted Expert in DVT Care

As a board-certified vein specialist, Dr. Robert Handley has extensive experience treating deep vein thrombosis and other venous conditions. He is a leader in minimally invasive vascular treatments, offering expert care at North Texas Vein to help patients manage and prevent vein-related issues.

How is DVT Diagnosed and Treated?

Because early detection is critical, Dr. Handley uses advanced ultrasound imaging to accurately diagnose DVT. If a clot is detected, treatment options may include:

• Blood thinners (anticoagulants)– Medications that prevent existing clots from growing and reduce the risk of new clots forming.
• Thrombolytic therapy (clot-busting drugs)– Used in severe cases to rapidly dissolve large clots.
• Minimally invasive procedures– Including catheter-directed clot removal for high-risk patients.
• Compression therapy– Specialized stockings that improve circulation and reduce swelling.

Each patient at North Texas Vein & Vascular receives a personalized treatment plan to ensure the most effective and safest approach to managing DVT.

Preventing DVT: Dr. Handley’s Expert Tips

The good news is that DVT is preventable. Dr. Handley recommends the following steps to reduce your risk:

• Stay active– Avoid sitting for prolonged periods; take breaks to stand, walk, and stretch.
• Stay hydrated– Proper hydration keeps blood from thickening, improving circulation.
• Maintain a healthy weight– Reducing excess pressure on veins lowers DVT risk.
• Wear compression stockings– Especially beneficial for frequent travelers or those at higher risk.
• Quit smoking– Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of clot formation.
• Schedule regular check-ups– If you have a history of DVT or vein disorders, routine evaluations with a specialist like Handley can help with early detection and prevention.

Victor Wembanyama’s diagnosis has raised awareness about deep vein thrombosis, serving as a powerful reminder that DVT can affect anyone. If you experience leg pain, swelling, or other potential DVT symptoms, don’t ignore them—seek medical attention immediately.

At North Texas Vein & Vascular, Dr. Robert Handley and his team offer top-tier DVT care, using the latest medical advancements to ensure patients receive the best possible treatment for their vein health.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Handley, visit our contact page.