Deep Vein Thrombosis, or DVT, as it is commonly coined in the medical industry, is the condition that ensues when a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins in your body, primarily leg veins are at risk. In extreme cases DVT can even be fatal.

Because of it’s risks, it is important to recognize the warning signs of Deep Vein Thrombosis. If you or a loved one is concerned about potentially getting DVT, we encourage you to review the list of warning signs we’ve compiled below for your reference.

DVT Warning Sign #1: Leg Pain

One of the most common signs of DVT is a throbbing style leg pain. The pain that occurs with DVT is the result of blood not being able to flow freely through a vein due to a blockage.

DVT Warning Sign #2: Swelling

Sometimes displaying in conjunction with pain, swelling occurs with DVT when the flow of blood is blocked or significantly minimized due to blockage. While not all DVT clots cause visible swelling, any noticeable swelling should result in imminent physician contact.

DVT Warning Sign #3: Skin Color Changes

Upon the onset of a DVT clot, blood will pool behind the clot, often causing skin color changes. The area can become red, blue or even white, and may be accompanied by swelling and/or leg pain.

DVT Warning Sign #4: Skin Temperature Changes

Skin may become warm to the touch when blood pools as a result of a DVT clot. While this symptom will often occur with color changes and/or swelling, significant skin temperature changes should be addressed immediately in order to avoid the repercussions of a DVT clot.

If you or a loved one is concerned about your risks for DVT, we encourage you to reach out to your physician to discuss preventative treatment options. The Vascular Compression Unit/VCU Therapy system offered by TriMed Systems includes specially designed features to directly reduce the risk of developing DVT.