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If your leg is swollen, red and painful, it may be a sign of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This condition occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, which can be life-threatening. Thrombosis not only blocks the vein and restricts blood flow, but if the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism.
Why can a blood clot form?
- Extended immobility: long travel, e.g., by bus, train or plane.
- Prolonged bed rest: for example after surgery or a serious illness.
- Leg injury: that requires bed rest or immobilization (broken leg).
- Pregnancy: increases pressure on the veins in the legs.
- Hormone replacement therapy: due to menopause.
- Overweight or obesity.
- Vascular disease.
- Smoking.
What are the symptoms?
1. Pain
Leg pain can easily be mistaken for pain after exercise or sports. The difference is that pain caused by a blood clot usually occurs in only one leg and is more intense at the site of the clot.
2. Swelling
Swelling caused by a blood clot appears suddenly and cannot be relieved with home remedies. The longer the clot goes undiagnosed, the more pronounced the swelling will be.
3. Warmth
The skin near the clot may feel warm or even hot to the touch. This symptom may be accompanied by tingling, itching and a pulsing sensation.
4. Redness
The skin may redden and the affected vein may become more visible.
When to seek help?
If you notice any of these symptoms, visit the nearest emergency department immediately. The symptoms usually appear in only one leg, which makes them easier to recognize due to the asymmetry.
