Overview
Deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. It causes pain and swelling, but its real danger is that part of the clot can break off and travel to the lungs, a life-threatening event. Clots are more likely after long immobility, surgery, or long flights, and in pregnancy. It needs prompt treatment with blood-thinning medicines, so leg swelling with pain should be taken seriously.
Symptoms
- Swelling in one leg, usually the calf
- Pain or tenderness, often when standing or walking
- Warmth over the affected area
- Red or darkened skin over the vein
- A heavy, aching feeling in the leg
When to see a doctor
See a doctor promptly for unexplained swelling and pain in one leg, especially after surgery, illness or long travel.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Sudden breathlessness, chest pain worse on breathing, coughing blood or collapse — the clot may have reached the lungs, call 108 immediately
Causes
Slow blood flow from long immobility, surgery, injury, pregnancy, some medicines, cancer, and inherited clotting tendencies.