Signs of Deep Vein Thrombosis to Look Out For
If you have a medical condition that causes your blood to clot, are taking certain medicines or if you remain immobile for a long time such as after a surgery or when undertaking a long journey in which you are restricted to sit in one place, then blood moves slowly through the body. This results in a clot in the deep veins, generally in legs, thighs or pelvis and sometimes in other parts. This is known as deep vein thrombosis. Here are some deep vein thrombosis early warning symptoms to watch out for.
Early Warning Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Although many people with this condition have no symptoms at all, consult your doctor if you notice any of the ones discussed herein:
- Swelling
Blood clots that occur in the deep veins obstruct blood flow and consequently, inflammation develops in that area. Usually, sudden swelling is seen in the affected leg, ankle or foot. It rarely affects both legs. Sometimes swelling can occur on the arms or tummy if the clot occurs there. - Pain
Tenderness, soreness or throbbing pain is generally felt in the thigh or calf especially when one is standing, walking or bending the foot. The pain sets in gradually. Sometimes, the pain feels like a cramp which is difficult to get rid of. Leg cramps occur particularly at night and usually begin in the calf. One may also experience inexplicable, acute pain in the ankle and foot. - Warmt in the Affected Region
The skin above the affected part becomes warmer than the surrounding area. - Change in Color
The skin of the affected area becomes dark, bluish or reddish in color. Sometimes the skin turns pale or white or becomes discolored. - Veins Enlarge
The swollen or enlarged vein can be seen and becomes stiff, tender and sore to touch.
When a blood clot is formed in the arm, these symptoms of deep vein thrombosis must not be ignored:
- Inflammation in the hand or arm
- Pain in the neck
- Shoulder pain
- A severe pain which travels from the arm to the forearm
- Weakness in the arm or hand
- Skin becomes bluish, reddish or white in color
When a blood clot breaks free and travels from the deep veins present in the arm or leg to the lung and blocks an artery it can obstruct blood from moving freely through the lung. Hence, it reduces the quantity of oxygen absorbed and becomes life-threatening.
Other symptoms include
- Coughing blood all of a sudden
- Pain in the jaw, arm, shoulder or back
- Pain and difficulty while breathing
- Sharp pain and discomfort in the chest
- Fast breathing or shortness of breath
- Acute lightheadedness, dizziness or fainting
- Rapid and irregular heartbeat and pulse
- Extremely low blood pressure
It is essential to know the early warning symptoms deep vein thrombosis as this condition can affect any person. Remember that it is treatable if detected early.