March is designated in the medical community as Deep Vein Thrombosis Awareness Month. Doing so they hope to shine a light on the symptoms and issues that often go unnoticed by this potentially life-threatening issue.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins within your body, usually in the legs. Identifying the symptoms and subtle signs is essential for proper treatment.
Here are a few signs of DVT you may not even have noticed that can lead to serious health issues.
Swelling, pain in lower extremities
One of the main signs of DVT is pain and swelling in the legs. This pain may represent itself as cramps or soreness even after being inactive and can occur in one or both legs. The swelling may be accompanied by a feeling that your legs are heavy or tight and hard to lift. Imagine trying to lift your foot over the edge of the bathtub to take a shower and you get a sharp cramp that has never happened before. Also, look for any swelling, especially around the ankles and lower legs. Any bruising that is unusual may be a sign of blood flow issues. If you notice these symptoms contact your doctor immediately for evaluation. If you can’t see your doctor within a day or so, keep your legs elevated when sitting, sleeping or lying down.
Redness, warmth in the legs
While swelling and pain are indicative of issues with lower extremity blood flow, people with DVT may also experience warm spells and redness in the leg or legs. These problems are usually associated with inflammation caused by poor blood flow or a blood clot and can be a sign you have an issue. If you notice one leg is feeling warmer than the other, especially low down towards the ankles or the skin is discolored, red or bluish, contact your doctor because you may have an issue. Be proactive when you notice an issue. If there is a discoloration, cramping or a color associated within your legs that you have not seen before it may be a sign of DVT.
Skin texture, color changes
Check the color and textures of the skin in your legs for any changes. These issues can be a sign of DVT. In some instances, the skin can appear pale or look like a bruise, especially around the problem area. Run your hands down the leg and feel for warmth or shiny areas that may also have tight skin. These changes in skin texture and color are possible signs that blood flow is being affected in the leg. If you notice any of these changes in your legs, contact your doctor for proper treatment procedures moving forward.
Deep Vein Thrombosis Month is a time to recognize the symptoms associated with this potentially life-threatening issue that most people often never even think about. Being aware of the signs and symptoms of DVT can help you take proactive steps with any further issues. If you are experiencing leg pain, swelling redness, bruising, difficulty breathing, cramps in your legs contact your doctor.
Dr. Lawrence Presant is chief medical officer at Arizona Vein Specialists in Phoenix.
