DVT in the News: 3 Celebs Who’ve Struggled with the Condition

Danger On The Airwaves

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Characterized by clotting in deep veins in the legs—and often associated with varicose veins—this condition can lead to a range of symptoms: pain in the leg, redness in the skin, as well as a sensation of warmth. [1] What’s more, DVT can become particularly dangerous when the clot dislodges and travels up to the pulmonary artery, leading to a potentially fatal condition called pulmonary embolism.

And for as impactful as this condition can be, there seems to be a general lack of understanding about it. DVT can strike anyone—it doesn’t discriminate—and you’d be surprised to know that a number of famous athletes, entertainers, journalists, actors, and other figures have struggled with it. Their stories have helped get the word out about this disease.

So who are some of these celebrities? Let’s take a look:

News Anchor David Bloom

Few cases underscore the importance of being proactive about DVT than that of former Today anchor and NBC journalist, David Bloom. In 2003, while covering the Iraq War, he collapsed and died due to pulmonary embolism related to this condition at the tender age of only 39. [2] Hard at work and travelling a great deal throughout the war-torn country, he disregarded cramps and pain in his legs, and, critically, didn’t follow through on treatment.

His death was sudden and a shock both to journalists and the world-at-large: a sober reminded of the importance of paying attention to symptoms and treatment. His widow, Melanie Bloom, has made it her mission to raise awareness about DVT with the organization, Coalition to Prevent DVT.

Actor Zsa Zsa Gabor

A massive figure in the golden age of cinema, Zsa Zsa Gabor was known for her elegance, style, and fierce wit (OK, and the fact that she had nine husbands, including George Saunders and Conrad Hilton). But all the bon mots in the world didn’t stop her from falling victim to DVT in 2010, when she was 93. [3] Complaining of leg-swelling, she was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with a massive blood clot.

Age was certainly a factor here, but notably, she had been wheelchair bound following a car accident some years before. This lack of activity and confinement increased the risk of developing the condition.

Racecar Driver Brian Vickers

NASCAR fans surely know of Brian Vickers, who at age 26, was on track to become a racing superstar. All looked promising for him, until he noticed a severe shortage of breath while biking. As symptoms increased—by the next day he couldn’t breathe without severe pain—he went to the hospital. There it was revealed that he had DVT, which lead to pulmonary embolism. [4]

He did recover and eventually returned to racing, but, in 2013 DVT developed in his foot following an injury. This was also medically managed, and he’s been back on the racing circuit since 2014.

Treat Yourself Like a Celebrity

What’s clear, then, is that DVT is dangerous and can strike anyone. There certainly are specific risk factors, but, as this list of celebs demonstrates, no one is immune to the problem. It’s therefore essential that you stay mindful of this condition, especially if you already suffer with varicose veins. Being responsive and ensuring you get help when you need it will not only lead to better outcomes but can be a real life-saver.

The experts at Hamilton Vein Center employ the latest in minimally-invasive and highly-effective treatments for a wide-range of vascular issues, including DVT and varicose veins. Employing a concierge-approach to care—in which there is careful and close attention to the needs of the patient—the team at these Texas-based outpatient clinics has helped countless patients find relief from these conditions. Learn more about what they do by calling (281) 565-0033 for the Houston location, the Austin office at (512) 551-1403, or San Antonio at (210) 504-4304.

References

“Deep Vein Thrombosis – Symptoms And Causes”. 2018. Mayo Clinic. Accessed September 10 2018. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/deep-vein-thrombosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352557.
“USATODAY.Com – NBC News’ David Bloom Dies In Iraq”. 2003. Usatoday.Com. Accessed September 10 2018. http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/life/world/iraq/2003-04-06-bloom_x.htm.
“Zsa Zsa Gabor Suffers ‘Massive Blood Clot,’ Publicist Says”. 2010. Com. Accessed September 10 2018. http://www.cnn.com/2010/SHOWBIZ/celebrity
Rodriguez, D. “9 Celebrities Who Battled Deep Vein Thrombosis”. 2018. Everydayhealth.Com. Accessed September 10 2018. https://www.everydayhealth.com/pictures/celebrities-who-battled-deep-vein-thrombosis/#05.