7 Warning Signs of a Blood Clot

Each year as many as 100,000 people die from blood clots. Even if you have no risk factors for blood clots, it is still possible to develop one, which is why it’s important to be aware of the warning signs.

What are blood clots?

A blood clot forms when blood partially solidifies in a vessel, which acts as the body's highway system, transporting blood from the heart. There are three types of blood vessels:

• Arteries, which carry blood away from the heart.

• Veins, which carry blood back to your heart.

• Capillaries, which connect your arteries and veins.

  
  

Blood clots can form anywhere in your body's 60,000 miles of blood vessels, but they’re most likely to happen in veins. The most common types of venous blood clots are:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Clots that form in the deep veins, usually in the legs, blocking blood flow.

• Pulmonary embolism (PE): If a DVT breaks off and travels to the lungs, it can cause a PE, which is a clot that moves to other parts of the body.

  
  

What are the signs and symptoms of a blood clot?

While early signs of a blood clot can be hard to identify, there are common signs and symptoms to be aware of, including:

• Swelling in the leg

• Tenderness leg cramps

• Out of breath

• Passing out or lightheadedness

• Chest pain or back pain when breathing

• Leg discoloration (red or blue hue)

• Racing heart

  
  

What do I do if I think I have a blood clot?

Your action plan may vary depending on if you suspect a pulmonary embolism vs. a deep vein thrombosis.

Certain pulmonary embolisms can pose serious risks to your health. If you experience any symptoms indicative of a blood clot in your lungs, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention in the emergency room. Your primary care physician may also refer you to the ER for a same-day lung scan to ensure prompt evaluation and treatment.

If you think you have a DVT, and your symptoms remain for more than a day or two and worsen, reach out to your primary care doctor. If you need help outside of your doctor’s regular business hours, go to the emergency room and not urgent care.