What are the Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis?
October 15, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis can vary, but common signs and symptoms include:
- Leg Pain:
- Pain, tenderness, or aching in the affected leg, often starting in the calf and potentially extending to the thigh or groin.
- Swelling:
- Swelling in the affected leg, typically in the ankle, foot, or calf. The leg may feel warm to the touch.
- Redness and Discoloration:
- Redness or noticeable discoloration of the skin in the affected area, often accompanying swelling.
- Increased Warmth:
- The affected leg may feel warmer than the unaffected leg due to inflammation and impaired blood flow.
- Visible Veins:
- Dilated, visible veins on the surface of the affected leg, potentially accompanied by a cord-like feeling.
- Leg Fatigue or Heaviness:
- A sensation of fatigue, heaviness, or fullness in the leg affected by the blood clot.
- Pain Aggravated by Movement:
- Pain that worsens when flexing the foot upward (dorsiflexion) or when walking.
- Difficulty Walking:
- Difficulty walking, particularly if the blood clot is large or causing significant pain and swelling.
- Shortness of Breath:
- If the blood clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism, leading to symptoms such as sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or rapid heartbeat.
- Coughing up Blood:
- In rare cases, a pulmonary embolism may cause coughing up blood or bloody sputum.
It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect you may have symptoms of DVT, especially if you have risk factors like recent surgery, prolonged immobilization, a history of blood clots, or certain medical conditions. Untreated DVT can lead to serious complications, including a pulmonary embolism. A healthcare professional can conduct appropriate diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound imaging, to confirm the presence of a blood clot and determine the best course of treatment.