Overview
DVT is a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg, causing one-sided swelling and pain. Its danger is that part of the clot can break off and travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism), which can kill suddenly. Long immobility, surgery, pregnancy and long journeys raise the risk.
Symptoms
- Swelling of one leg
- Calf or thigh pain, often like a cramp
- Warmth over the affected area
- Skin redness or darkening
- Visible surface veins
- Sudden breathlessness or chest pain if a clot travels to the lungs
Causes & risk factors
- Prolonged immobility — long flights, road trips or bed rest
- Recent surgery, injury or plaster cast
- Pregnancy, recent delivery or hormonal contraceptives
- Cancer and inherited clotting tendencies
- Obesity and smoking
Treatment & self-care
A suspected DVT needs same-day medical assessment with a scan; confirmed clots are treated with blood-thinning medicines for several months under close supervision. Do not massage the swollen leg, as this can dislodge the clot. On long journeys, move your legs regularly and stay hydrated; high-risk patients may be given preventive measures.
See a doctor urgently if
- One leg suddenly swollen, painful or warm — be seen today
- Sudden breathlessness or chest pain with leg swelling
- Coughing blood
- Leg swelling after surgery, childbirth or a long journey
This condition can be an emergency. If any of the signs above are severe or getting worse, go to the nearest emergency room now or call 112 or 199 — do not wait for an online consultation.