First Signs of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) happens when a thrombus (blood clot) forms in a vein that is located deep inside the body. The most common place for DVT to happen is in the legs.

While DVT can cause minor symptoms or no symptoms at all, some patients experience pain or swelling in the leg.

Risk Factors of Developing DVT

Some people are more likely to develop DVT than others because of existing medical conditions. Below are some examples of things that can make a person more prone to DVT:

• Prolonged bed rest – When the body doesn’t move very much, or if a person has to stay in bed for a long time.
• Blood-clotting disorders – Individuals with disorders that cause their blood to clot faster and more often.
• Injury – An injury to veins due to an accident or surgery.
• Obesity – Obesity increases the pressure on the pelvis, legs, and veins.
• Smoking – Smoking can also cause blood clotting and circulation problems in the body.
• Heart failure – Heart failure can increase a person’s chances of developing DVT and pulmonary embolism.

Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis

One of the problems in diagnosing DVT is that many people develop the condition without any symptoms. This usually makes the condition go undetected for a very long time.

Individuals who do begin to experience DVT symptoms may experience the following issues:

• Pain – A common symptom for DVT is pain the calf. It can feel like cramping or a soreness in the leg.
• Discolored skin – Another common symptom of DVT is discoloration of the skin on the leg. Most commonly, individuals see redness on the leg in which DVT has occurred.
• Warm sensation – Feeling a warm sensation is also a DVT symptom. One leg feels warmer to the touch, or warmth can be felt coming from the leg. 

Warning Signs of DVT and Pulmonary Embolism

Sometimes, DVT can cause a life-threatening complication called a pulmonary embolism. If you experience any of the symptoms of DVT listed above, you should see a doctor.

However, if you experience any of the following warning symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, you should seek medical attention immediately:

• Rapid pulse
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Chest pain that worsens when you take deep breaths
• Sudden shortness of breath

How to Prevent DVT

While it is impossible to completely prevent DVT from ever happening, there are steps you can take to decrease your chance of developing it. They include:

• Exercising regularly to reduce your risk of blood clots
• Avoiding sitting still for long periods of time
• Losing weight
• Quitting smoking

DVT Physicians in the Tampa Bay Area

Premier Vein & Vascular offers three locations to serve you in Tampa, Largo, and Lakeland. Our team excels in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of vascular and vein conditions, including deep vein thrombosis and blood clots.

If these types of issues are causing you physical or emotional distress, call us today to make an appointment at (888) VEINCARE (834-6227) or request a consultation online. Let us explain how we can help you resolve the problem quickly and painlessly.