Deep vein thrombosis refers to a blood clot in one or more deep veins, typically in the leg that might also loosen and lodge in the lungs. This can also lead to life-threatening complications like pulmonary embolism. So, it is important to understand the early warning signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis to get timely treatment and manage it effectively.

Anything that keeps blood from flowing naturally and interferes with blood circulation can cause deep vein thrombosis. This article lists out some of the common causes and risk factors:

• Underlying health issues
  Genetic disorders that cause blood clots can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Additionally, certain types of cancer, heart failure, and inflammatory bowel disease can increase one’s risk of developing the condition. The early warning symptoms of deep vein thrombosis are easier to spot in people with heart disease as they have limited heart and lung function.
• Extended immobility
  If a person cannot move their legs for long periods of time, like after surgery, during a long flight, or in the case of paralysis, blood circulation in the legs can be affected, which increases the risk of developing a blood clot.
• Injury or surgery
  Blood clots are one of the risks associated with surgery on any part of the legs, and this can cause or increase the risk of an individual to develop deep vein thrombosis.
• Pregnancy
  Blood clots may form in the legs as a result of increased pressure on the veins during pregnancy, and this risk is high even up to 6 weeks after delivery.
• Medication
  Certain types of medication like hormone replacement therapy and oral contraceptives can increase blood clotting. This can also become a cause or risk factor for deep vein thrombosis.
• Obesity
  Being overweight puts more pressure on the legs and, in turn, on the veins, increasing one’s risk of being affected by the condition.
• Smoking
  Smoking can cause blood clotting and reduce circulation, increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis.

Since deep vein thrombosis can be fatal, knowing the early warning signs and symptoms is crucial:

• Pain in the leg that feels like soreness or a cramp
• Swelling in the leg
• Discoloration or redness of the skin on the leg
• A feeling of warmth on the leg
• Pain in the leg that is aggravated by bending the foot

These symptoms may appear together or individually, and they may also mimic the symptoms of cellulitis infections. It is important to note that the early warning signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis are not always visible. So, it is important to also be able to recognize the signs of a pulmonary embolism:

• Chest pain
• Discomfort that increases when coughing or taking a deep breath
• Shortness of breath
• Fainting
• Feeling light-headed
• Rapid pulse
• Coughing up blood

Lifestyle changes like eating healthy and staying active can reduce the risk of this condition, but many causes are beyond control. Also, consulting a doctor is very important if any of these early warning signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis manifest.