Question 1

What is Venous Thromboembolism?

Accepted Answer

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a condition where blood clots form in the veins, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). It is caused by genetic mutations like Factor V Leiden and deficiencies in natural anticoagulant proteins such as Protein S that regulate blood clotting. The Factor V Leiden Mutation Analysis is the most important test for diagnosis because it identifies the most common inherited risk factor for dangerous blood clots.

Question 2

What causes venous thromboembolism?

Accepted Answer

Venous thromboembolism is caused by genetic mutations and protein deficiencies that make blood clot too easily. The Factor V Leiden mutation is the most common inherited cause, affecting how your blood responds to natural anticoagulants and making clots form more readily in your veins. Deficiencies in natural clotting regulators like Protein S and Protein C also contribute to abnormal clot formation, creating a hypercoagulable state where your blood is more prone to dangerous clotting in deep veins or lungs.

Question 3

What is the best test for venous thromboembolism?

Accepted Answer

The Factor V Leiden Mutation Analysis is the most important test for venous thromboembolism because it detects the single most common inherited clotting disorder, present in up to 5% of the population. This genetic test identifies whether you carry the mutation that causes your blood to clot excessively, substantially increasing your risk for DVT and PE. The Protein S Antigen, Free test is also essential because it measures levels of this critical natural anticoagulant protein—low levels significantly increase thrombosis risk by reducing your body's ability to prevent inappropriate clot formation. Together, these tests identify the underlying genetic and protein abnormalities that predispose you to life-threatening blood clots.

Question 4

When should I get tested for venous thromboembolism?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have experienced unexplained blood clots, especially before age 50, or have had recurrent clotting episodes without obvious triggers. Testing is also important if you have a family history of blood clots, DVT, or pulmonary embolism, as these genetic conditions often run in families. You should also consider testing if you developed a blood clot during pregnancy, while taking birth control pills, or in unusual locations like your arms or abdomen, as these situations suggest an underlying clotting disorder that needs identification for proper prevention and treatment planning.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of venous thromboembolism?

Accepted Answer

Venous thromboembolism symptoms depend on where the clot forms in your body. Deep vein thrombosis typically causes swelling, pain, warmth, and redness in your leg, usually in the calf or thigh, though you might not notice any symptoms at all. Pulmonary embolism occurs when a clot travels to your lungs and causes sudden shortness of breath, chest pain that worsens with breathing, rapid heart rate, coughing up blood, and lightheadedness. These symptoms require immediate medical attention as PE can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Question 6

Who is at risk for venous thromboembolism?

Accepted Answer

People with inherited clotting disorders like Factor V Leiden mutation, Protein S deficiency, or Protein C deficiency face significantly elevated risk for venous thromboembolism. Other risk factors include prolonged immobility from long flights or bed rest, recent surgery especially orthopedic procedures, pregnancy and the postpartum period, cancer and chemotherapy treatments, hormone therapies including birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy, obesity, smoking, and advanced age. Having a family history of blood clots increases your risk substantially, as many thrombophilia conditions are genetic and passed down through families.

Question 7

What happens if venous thromboembolism is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated venous thromboembolism can lead to life-threatening complications and long-term health problems. A clot in your leg can break loose and travel to your lungs, causing pulmonary embolism which can be fatal if it blocks major blood vessels. Chronic DVT can damage vein valves, leading to post-thrombotic syndrome with persistent leg pain, swelling, skin discoloration, and ulcers that significantly impact your quality of life. Recurrent clots become more likely without proper diagnosis and treatment, and each episode increases your risk for further complications including permanent lung damage from repeated pulmonary emboli.

Question 8

Can venous thromboembolism be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests cannot directly diagnose an active blood clot—imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans are needed for that. However, blood tests are essential for identifying your underlying risk factors and genetic predisposition to clotting disorders. The Factor V Leiden Mutation Analysis and Protein S Antigen test reveal whether you have inherited or acquired conditions that make you prone to developing VTE, helping your doctor assess your thrombosis risk and make decisions about prevention strategies, anticoagulation duration, and screening for family members who may carry the same genetic mutations.

Question 9

How is venous thromboembolism treated?

Accepted Answer

Venous thromboembolism is treated primarily with anticoagulant medications that thin your blood and prevent clots from growing or new ones from forming. Initial treatment often involves heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin, followed by oral anticoagulants like warfarin or newer direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for several months or longer depending on your risk factors. If you have an inherited clotting disorder identified through genetic testing, you may need lifelong anticoagulation therapy. In severe cases, clot-busting drugs or surgical procedures to remove large clots may be necessary, and compression stockings help prevent post-thrombotic syndrome and manage leg swelling.

Question 10

How can I prevent venous thromboembolism?

Accepted Answer

Prevention strategies depend on your individual risk factors identified through genetic testing and medical history. Stay active and avoid prolonged sitting—move around every hour during long flights or car trips, and do ankle exercises if you must sit for extended periods. Maintain a healthy weight, stay hydrated, and quit smoking as these factors significantly impact clotting risk. If you have Factor V Leiden or Protein S deficiency, discuss hormone-based medications with your doctor as birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy can dangerously increase clot risk. After surgery or during hospitalization, your doctor may prescribe preventive anticoagulation, and compression stockings can help keep blood flowing properly in your legs.

Question 11

What can I do at home for venous thromboembolism?

Accepted Answer

While home remedies cannot treat blood clots themselves, certain lifestyle measures support your treatment and reduce recurrence risk. Elevate your legs when sitting or lying down to improve blood flow and reduce swelling, and wear compression stockings as prescribed by your doctor. Stay physically active with regular walking and leg exercises to keep blood circulating, but avoid activities that could cause injury while on blood thinners. Maintain proper hydration, eat a consistent diet if taking warfarin (as vitamin K intake affects dosing), and monitor for signs of bleeding or new clots. Always take anticoagulant medications exactly as prescribed and attend all follow-up appointments for blood monitoring.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Blood Clot Risk Blood Test

What is Venous Thromboembolism?

What causes venous thromboembolism?

What is the best test for venous thromboembolism?

When should I get tested for venous thromboembolism?

References

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