Frequent Symptoms
Symptoms can often be confused with other health conditions, but there are some signs of DVT that are important to be aware of, especially if you have a risk factor, such as pregnancy, obesity, or you tend to sit for long periods of time:
Pain or tenderness in the leg (perhaps only while walking or standing)Swelling in the affected areaRedness or discoloration of the skin on the leg
Unfortunately, people who have DVT may not experience symptoms until the clot has progressed to PE.
Signs and symptoms of this life-threatening condition include:
Unexplained shortness of breathRapid breathing and fast heart rate (pulse)Chest painCoughing up bloodSweatingLightheadednessPain when taking a deep breathSudden onset coughFainting
Complications
Pulmonary embolism (PE) is one of the biggest complications of DVT. Small clots reduce blood flow and can cause damage to lung tissue. If the clot is large and enters your lungs, it can completely stop blood flow and cause sudden death
The damage to a vein after a DVT is called post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). Swelling, pain, and discoloration are common symptoms of PTS, but in severe cases, it can also cause ulcers and scaling of the skin.
Sometimes, DVT and PE can become chronic. If you’ve been diagnosed with a DVT or diagnosed with a PE, you’ll most likely be prescribed blood thinners, also known as anti-coagulants. These medications help prevent future occurrences. But because these drugs prevent blood clots, they can cause a risk of bleeding.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
People with DVT report swelling, throbbing pain, redness, and tenderness in the affected area, but about half of the people with DVT don’t have any symptoms at all. Some people with DVT also notice enlargement of the veins in one leg or arm, or increased warmth in the area that’s swollen. You may also have pain when standing or walking. Many describe the pain as a cramp, like a “Charley horse.”
You can try elevating your leg, but if the symptoms persist or get worse, see your healthcare provider for treatment.
If a DVT breaks loose and causes PE, it can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, feeling faint, excessive sweating, fever, pale/discolored skin, and irregular heartbeat. Emergency medical attention is necessary.
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