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Blood clotting is an essential part of our standard body functions. It is the body’s way of protecting itself from losing too much blood in the event of a cut, scrape or other injury.
The blood clotting process works by releasing specific chemicals near an open wound to attract other platelets to form near the edges of the injury. This process slows down bleeding until the area is fully clotted.
However, blood clots are not always a positive thing, especially if they’re in parts of your body such as deep in the veins of your leg, preventing efficient blood flow and risking a more severe and life-threatening situation. If a blood clot is released, it can lead to severe injury or death.
Knowing the signs of a blood clot in your leg will help you seek treatment sooner.
What Is a Blood Clot?
A blood clot, or thrombus, is the result of the final stage of blood clotting or coagulation. A mass of blood forms when a mix of platelets, protein and cells stick together in the bloodstream.
In typical instances, a blood clot forms to slow and stop bleeding after an injury. When healing takes place, the body reabsorbs the blood clot, slowly breaks it down, and releases it back into the bloodstream, causing no harm to the body.
In some cases, such as in the deep veins of the leg, blood clots form when they shouldn’t, leaving the potential for adverse effects if left undiscovered or untreated. Internally, blood clots can form or travel to various areas of the body, such as:
- Limbs
- Lungs
- Heart
- Brain
- Kidneys
Blood clot symptoms vary by region of the body they are located in. If you believe you are living with a blood clot in your leg due to untreated varicose veins or other venous conditions that affect your legs, you should know the signs to recognize if you need further evaluation, diagnosis and treatment.
5 Signs of a Blood Clot in Your Leg
Signs and symptoms of blood clots in the leg vary in severity and frequency for many patients. There are five prominent symptoms to take note of if you believe you have a blood clot in your leg.
- Sudden or gradual pain that may feel like a pulled muscle or cramping
- The affected area may feel warm to the touch
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Redness or discoloration
If you are experiencing new or worsening symptoms in one of your legs, we recommend visiting a vein specialist or urgent care facility for further evaluation today. Getting seen sooner will help you avoid any complications.
Treatment Options
Blood clot treatment is based on the location and severity of the blood clot you have. For most patients, treatment may include:
- Anticoagulant medication (blood thinners)
- Thrombolytics, medication therapy that dissolves blood clots
- Compression stockings
- Surgery or other procedures to remove blood clots
Understanding Blood Clots and DVT
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the most common type of venous-related blood clot, affecting nearly 200,000 Americans a year.
It is a serious condition affecting a major vein located deep inside your body. It can be found in the pelvis, arms, or legs and break off and lead to your brain, heart or lungs, causing potentially life-threatening issues. Shortness of breath or pain when breathing is the most common sign of a blood clot in the lungs, also known as a pulmonary embolism.
If you are experiencing symptoms consistent with a blood clot, it may be related to DVT.
Blood Clot Treatment Near Me
Virginia Vein Care understands the worry that can come from experiencing the symptoms of a blood clot. We are here to help you get diagnosed and treated sooner.
We offer a wide range of minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment options to effectively care for blood clots and other venous conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis. Don’t delay diagnosis and care; your life depends on it. Visit a Virginia Vein Care location near you today.