Is it possible to feel a blood clot?
DVT can be life threatening, as fragments of the clot may break away and travel through the bloodstream to other parts of the body, such as the lungs.
In some people, a pulmonary embolism may be the first indication of DVT.
Possible signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism
- rapid or irregular heartbeat
- difficulty breathing
- chest pain or discomfort, which typically worsens when breathing deeply or coughing
- coughing up blood
- lightheadedness or fainting, due to very low blood pressure
A pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency. Anyone who experiences symptoms should seek immediate medical care.
How long can someone have a blood clot without knowing?
Although around half of people with DVT do not experience symptoms, they may still be complications from blood clots.
As such, it is difficult to know how long a person can have DVT before developing symptoms.
Who is at risk of blood clots?
According to the, almost anyone may develop DVT, but the following factors can increase the risk:
- slow blood flow due to:
- limited movement
- long periods of inactivity
- paralysis
- injury to a vein, such as from:
- a fracture
- a severe muscle injury
- major surgery
- increased estrogen, such as from:
- certain chronic medical conditions, such as:
Smoking, having obesity, and advanced age can also increase the risk of blood clots.
Preventing blood clots
Maintaining or achieving a moderate weight and getting regular exercise can of blood clots.
The American Heart Association recommends the following strategies for helping to prevent blood clots during extended periods of immobility, such as during hospitalization or long-distance air travel:
- Moving around: As long as it is safe to do so, a person should move around regularly to promote blood flow. This may involve exercises to flex the legs and ankles or changing position frequently.
- Wearing compression devices: Graduated compression stockings and massaging compression devices can promote blood flow. However, a person should first ask their doctor whether these devices are safe for them to use.
- Taking prescription medications: Doctors may recommend anticoagulant medications for people at high risk of developing blood clots. However, these medications are not suitable for people at high risk of bleeding.
When to contact a doctor
Anyone who develops symptoms of DVT or pulmonary embolism should seek emergency medical treatment. Timely treatment can reduce the risk of complications, including death.
In addition, people who develop symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis should also contact their doctor.
Although this condition is rarely dangerous, recent research with a higher risk of serious conditions, including DVT, pulmonary embolisms, and cancerous cells.
Summary
A blood clot is a collection of blood cells and proteins inside a blood vessel. Superficial thromboses are clots that develop in blood vessels close to the skin’s surface, and these may cause symptoms that a person can see and feel.
Deep vein thromboses are clots that develop in blood vessels deep inside the body, and these may cause symptoms that a person can feel in other ways.
Anyone who experiences symptoms of a blood clot should seek emergency medical attention.
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