Recognizing the Signs of Deep Vein Thrombosis
The symptoms of deep vein thrombosis often go unrecognized by people until it causes a serious condition. Here, you will know about the telltale symptoms of deep vein thrombosis. Knowing about the symptoms early can help you get timely treatment.
1. Swelling in One Leg or Arm
If your arm or leg has swollen abnormally and is accompanied by pain, it is a sign of DVT. This happens when a clot stops the flow of blood and builds up in the blood vessel, causing it to swell. Even after hot compresses, people may still have swelling and pain.
2. The Affected Area Becomes Warm
Another telltale symptom of deep vein thrombosis is a temperature change in the affected area. The skin becomes warmer than the surrounding areas due to the increase in temperature. Sometimes, the affected area also gives a feeling of heat or tingling.
3. Skin Discoloration on the Arm or Leg
In the area of the clot, the skin may look reddish or bluish. As the clot blocks the veins in that area the skin gets discolored. This redness will not go over time and intensify instead. If you experience persistent red skin in the legs or the redness intensifies for no detectable reason accompanied by swelling, you should bring it to your doctor’s attention.
4. Pain
DVT pain often starts in the calf of your leg and worsens when bending your foot. You may feel a cramping or throbbing pain. It varies in intensity depending on the size of the clot. If the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs causing a pulmonary embolism, a person may experience sudden and intense chest pain. Pulmonary embolism is fatal and immediate medical attention is required.
5. Tenderness
When the area becomes tender and warm to touch, it is a telltale symptom of deep vein thrombosis. Even though the clot is deep within the leg, the swollen veins become sore when you touch them. If the clot grows, the veins also become visible through the skin.
6. Visibly Bulging Veins
This may be a sign of deep vein thrombosis in some people. When blood does not flow easily due to blockage, the veins may become enlarged. If you have consistently visible veins in your leg or arm, it may be a sign of developing DVT.
7. Leg or Arm Fatigue
Due to the formation of clots in your leg or arm, the blood flow in your leg or arm becomes restricted. This will result in your leg or arm feeling weaker and more tired.
In most people, deep vein thrombosis occurs in only one leg, however, in rare cases both the legs can have DVT. If you notice any of the abovementioned telltale symptoms of deep vein thrombosis, you need to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment.