Deep Vein Thrombosis: The Hidden Health Risk You Shouldn’t Ignore

When the San Antonio Spurs announced that Victor Wembanyama would miss the rest of the season due to deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his shoulder, it shocked fans and underscored the seriousness of this medical condition. (ESPN) While DVT is commonly associated with the legs, this case highlights that blood clots can form anywhere in the body, leading to serious health risks.

At Vascular Institute of the Pines, Dr. Leah Hershman, D.O. specializes in diagnosing and treating DVT and other vascular conditions. As a board-certified vein specialist, Dr. Hershman provides advanced, minimally invasive treatments to help patients prevent life-threatening complications and maintain healthy circulation.

What is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?

DVT occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in a deep vein, most often in the legs. However, as seen in Wembanyama’s case, it can also develop in other areas, such as the arms or shoulders. If a clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism (PE)—a potentially life-threatening emergency.

Signs and Symptoms of DVT

DVT can sometimes develop without obvious symptoms, making it especially dangerous. However, when symptoms do appear, they often include:

• Swelling – Usually in one leg or arm.
• Pain or tenderness – Can feel like a muscle cramp, typically in the calf or thigh.
• Warm skin – The affected area may feel hotter than usual.
• Red or discolored skin – The skin over the clot may appear reddish or bluish.

Wembanyama initially ignored his symptoms, assuming they would improve with rest. However, when the discomfort persisted, further medical testing revealed a blood clot. This highlights why early detection is critical—ignoring symptoms could lead to severe complications.

Who is at Risk for DVT?

DVT can happen to anyone, but some factors increase the risk:

• Prolonged immobility – Long periods of sitting, such as during flights or bed rest.
• Surgery or trauma – Especially orthopedic procedures that limit movement.
• Underlying medical conditions – Cancer, heart disease, or clotting disorders.
• Hormonal changes – Pregnancy, birth control pills, or hormone therapy.
• Smoking and obesity – Lifestyle factors that increase clotting risk.

At Vascular Institute of the Pines, Dr. Leah Hershman helps patients assess their risk factors and implement preventive strategies to lower the chances of developing DVT.

Dr. Leah Hershman: A Leader in DVT Care at Vascular Institute of the Pines

As a board-certified vein specialist, Dr. Leah Hershman has dedicated her career to treating and preventing venous diseases, including DVT. At Vascular Institute of the Pines, she provides cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatments designed to restore healthy circulation and prevent life-threatening complications.

How is DVT Diagnosed and Treated?

Early detection is key to preventing complications like pulmonary embolism. At Vascular Institute of the Pines, Dr. Hershman utilizes advanced ultrasound technology to diagnose DVT with precision. 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 dissolve large clots quickly.
• Minimally invasive procedures – Including catheter-based clot removal techniques for patients with high-risk DVT.
• Compression therapy – Specialized stockings that improve circulation and prevent swelling.

Dr. Hershman creates personalized treatment plans for every patient, ensuring the most effective and safest approach to managing DVT.

Preventing DVT: Dr. Hershman’s Expert Tips

DVT is serious but preventable. Dr. Hershman recommends taking the following steps to reduce your risk:

• Stay active – Avoid prolonged sitting or standing. If traveling, take breaks to stretch and move.
• Drink plenty of water – Proper hydration improves circulation and prevents blood from thickening.
• Maintain a healthy weight – Reducing excess pressure on veins decreases DVT risk.
• Wear compression stockings – These can help improve circulation, particularly for those at higher risk.
• Quit smoking – Smoking increases blood clot risk and damages blood vessels.
• Get regular check-ups – If you have a history of DVT or vein issues, consult a specialist like Dr. Hershman for preventive care.

Final Thoughts

Victor Wembanyama’s diagnosis has raised awareness about DVT, reminding us that blood clots can happen to anyone. If you experience leg pain, swelling, or other signs of DVT, don’t wait—seek medical attention immediately.

At Vascular Institute of the Pines, Dr. Leah Hershman and her team provide expert DVT care, ensuring that patients receive the best possible treatment for their vein health.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hershman, visit Vascular Institute of the Pines today.