10 Warning Signs of a Blood Clot in the Leg You Should Know

A blood clot in a deep vein of the leg is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It can be dangerous because part of the clot may break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism, which is a medical emergency.

Not everyone with a DVT has obvious symptoms, but possible warning signs include:

1. Swelling in one leg

One leg may become noticeably larger than the other.
Swelling can occur in the calf, ankle, or entire leg.

2. Leg pain or tenderness

Pain may feel like a cramp, soreness, or aching.
It often occurs in the calf or thigh.

3. Warmth over the affected area

The skin around the clot may feel warmer than the surrounding area.

4. Redness or skin discoloration

The affected area may appear red, darker, or discolored.

5. A feeling of heaviness in the leg

The leg may feel unusually heavy, tight, or uncomfortable.

6. Enlarged or more visible veins

Surface veins may become more noticeable due to changes in blood flow.

7. Pain that worsens when standing or walking

Symptoms may become more noticeable when the leg is under pressure.

8. Sudden unexplained leg discomfort

New symptoms without an obvious injury should be taken seriously, especially with risk factors.

9. Shortness of breath or chest pain (possible lung clot)

A clot that travels to the lungs can cause:
- Sudden difficulty breathing.
- Chest pain, especially with deep breaths.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Coughing, sometimes with blood.