Blood clots in the legs are often linked to a condition called Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). In some cases, this condition can be very serious and possibly life-threatening. Other times, the blood clot resolves on its own. Regardless, it is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to potentially severe conditions like DVT. As such, knowing the causes and symptoms of blood clots in the legs is very important.
If you frequently experience any of these symptoms or are at risk of DVT, contacting a medical professional quickly is advised. Here are some of the signs and symptoms of blood clots in the legs that you should look out for.
Anyone may be affected by DVT or blood clots in the legs. However, several risk factors may increase a person’s susceptibility to blood clots in the legs. Obesity and a family history of blood clots in the legs are two significant risk factors to be aware of. Those who smoke may also be at greater risk. In addition, pregnancy has also been linked to an increased risk of blood clots in the legs.
Another common risk factor for DVT is prolonged inactivity, especially following a surgical procedure in the leg area. Doctors typically advise light leg movements following leg surgeries to reduce the patient’s risk of blood clots.
If you are at risk of blood clots in the legs for any reason, however, long periods of inactivity may increase your risk. It is recommended that those at risk attempt to avoid being immobile for extended periods. If you can, get up and walk around periodically throughout your day if you may be at elevated risk of DVT.
Knowing the causes of blood clots is only half the battle. To stay protected, it is also essential to know how to detect the symptoms of a blood clot in the leg. There are a wide variety of signs of a blood clot in the leg. Some people may experience different symptoms than others. Additionally, some signs may be noticeable as a physical sensation, while others are visible on the skin. As such, it is important to be aware of a variety of potential symptoms of blood clots in the legs.
Any of the following symptoms may be associated with DVT:
If you notice any of these symptoms, it may be wise to seek medical attention as soon as possible. If possible, seeing a doctor on the same day is ideal. The sooner you can diagnose and treat a blood clot in the leg, the better.
Some simple treatments may be effective such as medication or wearing compression leg stockings can reduce the dangers and symptoms. However, there are also many advanced treatments available for blood clots in the legs.
Vein ablation is a minimally invasive treatment that is commonly used to treat varicose veins and may also be used to treat blood clots. This is just one potential treatment option that a doctor might recommend.
If you have experienced blood clots in the legs or are at increased risk of blood clots, South Valley Vascular can help you. With locations in Visalia, Hanford, Porterville, and Fresno, South Valley Vascular is one of California’s leaders in vascular treatment today. Schedule a consultation to discuss your health and treatment options with an expert today.
