There are several symptoms of blood clots in the legs. These symptoms include changes related to the color of the skin, increased warmth, and tenderness. Other symptoms of blood clots in the legs include swelling and pain.

Blood clots in the legs, also referred to as deep vein thrombosis, are a dangerous condition. They typically affect the calf and thigh, and blood clots can block the flow of blood to other areas of the body. When a blood clot develops it could possibly break free, become an embolism, and travel through the bloodstream. At this point, the embolism becomes a potentially fatal problem because it can travel to the heart, lungs, or brain and cause irreversible damage or death.

Several causes of blood clots in the legs have been identified, including smoking, trauma, obesity, and extended bed rest. Other causes can include a genetic predisposition to clotting problems, cancer, and medications, such as birth control pills and estrogen supplements. All of these have the potential to reduce blood flow or change the pattern of blood flow in the veins of the legs.

Deep vein thrombosis causes symptoms similar to any form of inflammation. This includes redness in the affected area and tenderness. In addition, the area is typically swollen and warm to the touch. These symptoms are a result of blood flow being obstructed in a specific area due to the blood clot disrupting the normal flow of blood through the vein.

Other symptoms of blood clots in the legs also exist. Patients experiencing a blood clot in the leg may typically be able to feel the vein popped out as a result of the blood clot. This results in pain that can become progressively worse if left untreated.

Seeking treatment for an expected blood clot in the leg is vital to survival. Patients experiencing pain, swelling, and redness should seek the advice of their physician. If any of these symptoms of blood clots in the legs are experienced in conjunction with trouble breathing and chest pain, emergency medical help is necessary.

Treatment for blood clots in the leg will depend on the severity of the situation. Hospitalization is often required for the administration of medication to help dissolve the existing clot. Medications, such as blood thinners, may be prescribed to help keep blood clots from forming in the future. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases.