Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – the danger signs

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that has formed in one of the deep veins of the body, most commonly in the calf or thigh, but can be found elsewhere.

The main symptoms are pain, aching and tenderness, swelling, heat and red skin in the affected area. This pain be increase when you bend your toes towards you. You may experience all or some of these symptoms. It is also possible to experience no symptoms.

The main and most serious complication of a DVT is a pulmonary embolism (PE), which is when a piece of the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs via the bloodstream, blocking one of the blood vessels in the lung tissue. Symptoms of a PE include breathlessness, chest pain on breathing in and sudden collapse.

Both DVT and/or PE signs and symptoms require urgent medical attention.

You can read more about the risk factors, testing, treatment and complications of DVT’s and PE’s on https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/deep-vein-thrombosis-dvt/