Signs and Symptoms of a DVT

When a clot forms, it can either partially or totally block the blood flow in that vein. Symptoms of a DVT can include:

  • swelling of the leg
  • warmth and redness of the leg
  • pain that is noticeable, or worse when standing or walking

These are not always a sign of a DVT, but anyone who experiences them should contact a doctor immediately.

Sometimes a blood clot will lodge itself in an artery that leads to your heart. This is called a pulmonary embolism and can cause severe breathing difficulties.

Symptoms of pulmonary embolism

These include shortness of breath; chest pain which may be worsened by deep breaths; and coughing up phlegm, possibly flecked with blood.

Anyone with these symptoms should seek emergency medical treatment.

Diagnosing a DVT

If a DVT is suspected, the doctor will take a full medical history and carry out a physical examination. Tests that also may be required include:

  • the clotting properties of the blood
  • an ultrasound scan
  • venography - using X-rays to show the flow of blood when special dye is injected into the veins.

Treating a DVT

Treatment aims to prevent:

  • the clot becoming larger
  • the blood clot breaking loose and traveling to the lungs
  • new clots from forming
  • post-thrombotic syndrome
 

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