What are the symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis. How is DVT diagnosed and treated. Who is at higher risk of developing DVT. What can be done to prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis.

Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis: A Comprehensive Guide

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition characterized by the formation of blood clots in deep veins, typically in the legs. These clots can pose significant health risks, including the potential for life-threatening complications. This article delves into the intricacies of DVT, providing valuable insights into its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Identifying the signs of DVT is crucial for early intervention and treatment. The primary symptoms typically manifest in one leg, although in rare cases, both legs may be affected. Here are the key indicators to watch for:

• Throbbing pain in the calf or thigh, particularly when walking or standing
• Swelling in the affected leg
• Warm skin around the painful area
• Redness or darkening of the skin near the affected region
• Swollen veins that feel hard or sore to the touch

Can DVT occur in other parts of the body? While less common, DVT can develop in the arms or abdomen, presenting similar symptoms in these areas.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience symptoms suggestive of DVT, it’s imperative to seek medical help promptly. Contact your healthcare provider or NHS 111 for an urgent appointment. In cases where DVT symptoms are accompanied by breathlessness or chest pain, immediate medical attention is required. These additional symptoms could indicate a pulmonary embolism, a potentially life-threatening condition where blood clots travel to the lungs.

Risk Factors for Deep Vein Thrombosis

Understanding the risk factors associated with DVT can help individuals take preventive measures and seek timely medical attention. Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing DVT:

• Age: Being over 60 years old
• Weight: Obesity or being overweight
• Lifestyle: Smoking
• Medical history: Previous DVT episodes
• Medications: Use of contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Health conditions: Cancer or heart failure
• Vascular health: Presence of varicose veins

Are there specific situations that increase DVT risk? Certain circumstances can temporarily elevate the risk of developing DVT:

• Hospitalization, especially with limited mobility post-surgery
• Extended periods of bed rest
• Long-distance travel (over 3 hours) by plane, car, or train
• Pregnancy and the postpartum period (up to 6 weeks after childbirth)
• Dehydration

It’s important to note that DVT can sometimes occur without any apparent cause, underscoring the importance of awareness and vigilance.

Diagnosing Deep Vein Thrombosis: Medical Procedures and Tests

Accurate diagnosis of DVT is crucial for appropriate treatment. If a healthcare provider suspects DVT, they will typically refer the patient to a hospital for diagnostic tests within 24 hours. The primary diagnostic procedures include:

Ultrasound Scan

An ultrasound scan is the most common diagnostic tool for DVT. This non-invasive procedure uses sound waves to create images of the blood flow in the affected vein, allowing healthcare professionals to identify any blockages or abnormalities.

Venogram

In some cases, a venogram may be performed. This procedure involves injecting a special dye into the vein, which is then visualized through X-ray imaging. The dye helps highlight the exact location and extent of the blood clot.

How quickly should DVT be diagnosed? Given the potential complications of DVT, prompt diagnosis is essential. Healthcare providers aim to conduct diagnostic tests within 24 hours of suspecting DVT to initiate timely treatment.

Treatment Options for Deep Vein Thrombosis

Once DVT is diagnosed, treatment typically begins immediately to prevent complications and alleviate symptoms. The primary treatment approaches include:

Anticoagulant Medications

Blood-thinning medicines, also known as anticoagulants, are the cornerstone of DVT treatment. These medications help prevent existing clots from growing larger and reduce the risk of new clots forming. Common anticoagulants used in DVT treatment include:

• Heparin: Often administered as an initial treatment while awaiting diagnostic confirmation
• Warfarin: A long-term oral anticoagulant
• Rivaroxaban: A newer anticoagulant that doesn’t require regular blood monitoring

How long does anticoagulant treatment last? Most patients require anticoagulant therapy for at least three months, though the duration may vary based on individual factors and the severity of the DVT.

Surgical Interventions

In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to address DVT:

• Thrombectomy: A procedure to remove large blood clots
• Inferior vena cava filter placement: Implantation of a filter to prevent clots from traveling to the lungs

Special Considerations for Pregnant Women

Pregnant women diagnosed with DVT require specialized treatment. They typically receive anticoagulant injections throughout the pregnancy and for six weeks postpartum to manage the condition effectively while ensuring the safety of both mother and baby.

Recovering from Deep Vein Thrombosis: Post-Treatment Care

Recovery from DVT involves a combination of medical management and lifestyle adjustments. After hospital discharge, patients are encouraged to:

• Engage in regular walking to promote circulation
• Elevate the affected leg while sitting to reduce swelling
• Postpone long-distance travel for at least two weeks after starting anticoagulant therapy

How can patients support their recovery at home? In addition to following medical advice, patients can aid their recovery by staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged periods of inactivity.

Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis: Lifestyle Changes and Precautions

While not all cases of DVT can be prevented, certain lifestyle modifications and precautions can significantly reduce the risk:

Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise
• Stay active with regular walks and physical activity
• Ensure adequate hydration to maintain healthy blood flow
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption

Travel Precautions

For journeys lasting 3 hours or more, consider the following measures:

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Avoid alcohol consumption during travel
• Take opportunities to walk and stretch when possible

Hospital Stay Considerations

If hospitalized, healthcare providers will assess your DVT risk and may recommend preventive measures such as:

• Compression stockings
• Pneumatic compression devices
• Prophylactic anticoagulant medications

What can be done to prevent DVT during prolonged periods of inactivity? Regular movement, even when confined to bed, can help prevent DVT. Simple exercises like ankle rotations and leg lifts can promote blood circulation.

Understanding the Complications of Deep Vein Thrombosis

While DVT itself is a serious condition, it can lead to potentially life-threatening complications if left untreated. The most severe complication is pulmonary embolism (PE), which occurs when a blood clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs.

Pulmonary Embolism

Symptoms of pulmonary embolism include:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Coughing up blood

PE is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. If you experience these symptoms, especially in conjunction with DVT symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Post-Thrombotic Syndrome

Another potential complication of DVT is post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). This condition can develop months or years after a DVT episode and is characterized by:

• Chronic swelling in the affected limb
• Skin discoloration
• Pain or discomfort
• Skin ulcers in severe cases

How can the risk of complications be minimized? Prompt diagnosis and treatment of DVT, along with adherence to prescribed anticoagulant therapy and follow-up care, can significantly reduce the risk of these complications.

Living with Deep Vein Thrombosis: Long-Term Management and Quality of Life

For many individuals, a DVT diagnosis necessitates long-term management strategies to prevent recurrence and maintain optimal health. This involves a multifaceted approach encompassing medical supervision, lifestyle adjustments, and ongoing vigilance.

Regular Medical Follow-ups

Patients with a history of DVT typically require regular check-ups with their healthcare provider. These appointments may involve:

• Blood tests to monitor anticoagulation levels (for those on warfarin)
• Assessment of symptoms and overall vascular health
• Adjustments to medication regimens as needed

Lifestyle Modifications

Long-term management of DVT often involves sustained lifestyle changes:

• Maintaining an active lifestyle with regular exercise
• Weight management through healthy diet and physical activity
• Smoking cessation and moderation of alcohol intake
• Use of compression stockings as recommended by healthcare providers

Mental Health Considerations

Living with DVT can have psychological impacts. Some individuals may experience anxiety about recurrence or limitations on their activities. It’s important to address these concerns:

• Seek support from healthcare providers, family, or support groups
• Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness or meditation
• Engage in activities that promote overall well-being and mental health

How can patients maintain a good quality of life while managing DVT? By adhering to treatment plans, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and addressing both physical and mental health aspects, individuals with DVT can maintain a fulfilling and active life. Open communication with healthcare providers about concerns and challenges is key to developing effective long-term management strategies.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in DVT Management

The field of DVT research is dynamic, with ongoing studies aimed at improving diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. Some areas of current interest include:

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques

Researchers are exploring new imaging technologies and biomarkers that could enhance the accuracy and speed of DVT diagnosis. These advancements may lead to earlier detection and more targeted treatment approaches.

Novel Anticoagulants

The development of new anticoagulant medications continues, with a focus on improving efficacy, reducing side effects, and simplifying dosing regimens. These innovations may offer more personalized treatment options for DVT patients.

Genetic Risk Factors

Studies are underway to better understand the genetic components that contribute to DVT risk. This research could lead to more precise risk assessments and tailored prevention strategies for individuals with genetic predispositions.

Minimally Invasive Treatments

Advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques and catheter-based therapies may provide alternative treatment options for certain DVT cases, potentially reducing recovery times and improving outcomes.

What potential breakthroughs in DVT management can we anticipate in the coming years? While it’s difficult to predict specific outcomes, ongoing research holds promise for more personalized, effective, and less invasive approaches to DVT prevention and treatment. As our understanding of the condition deepens, we can expect continued improvements in patient care and outcomes.

Deep Vein Thrombosis remains a significant health concern, but with increased awareness, prompt diagnosis, and appropriate management, its impact can be minimized. By understanding the risk factors, recognizing symptoms, and adhering to prevention strategies, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their vascular health. As research progresses, we can look forward to even more effective ways to address this challenging condition, improving outcomes and quality of life for those affected by DVT.

DVT (deep vein thrombosis) – NHS

DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a blood clot in a vein, usually in the leg. DVT can be dangerous. Get medical help as soon as possible if you think you have DVT.

Symptoms of DVT (deep vein thrombosis)

Symptoms of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) in the leg are:

• throbbing pain in 1 leg (rarely both legs), usually in the calf or thigh, when walking or standing up
• swelling in 1 leg (rarely both legs)
• warm skin around the painful area
• red or darkened skin around the painful area – this may be harder to see on brown or black skin
• swollen veins that are hard or sore when you touch them

These symptoms can also happen in your arm or tummy if that’s where the blood clot is.

Credit:

DR P. MARAZZI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/440619/view

Urgent advice: Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if:

You have symptoms of DVT (deep vein thrombosis), such as pain and swelling, and:

• breathlessness
• chest pain

DVT can be very serious because blood clots can travel to your lungs. This is called a pulmonary embolism.

A pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening and needs treatment straight away.

Who is more likely to get DVT (deep vein thrombosis)

A DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is more likely to happen if you:

• are over 60
• are overweight
• smoke
• have had DVT before
• take the contraceptive pill or HRT
• have cancer or heart failure
• have varicose veins

There are also some times when you have a higher chance of getting DVT.

These include if you:

• are staying in or recently left hospital – especially if you cannot move around much (like after an operation)
• are confined to bed
• go on a long journey (more than 3 hours) by plane, car or train
• are pregnant or if you’ve had a baby in the previous 6 weeks
• are dehydrated

Sometimes DVT can happen for no obvious reason.

How DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is diagnosed

If a doctor thinks you have DVT (deep vein thrombosis), you should be referred to hospital within 24 hours for an ultrasound scan. The scan shows whether blood is flowing normally through the vein.

You may also have an X-ray of the vein (venogram). For this, you’ll be injected with a dye to show where the blood clot is.

Treatment of DVT (deep vein thrombosis)

You may have an injection of a blood-thinning medicine called heparin while you’re waiting for an ultrasound scan to see if you have a DVT (deep vein thrombosis).

The main treatments include:

• blood-thinning medicines, such as warfarin or rivaroxaban – you’ll probably need to take these for at least 3 months
• surgery to remove blood clots or stop them forming

If you get a DVT when you’re pregnant, you’ll have injections for the rest of the pregnancy and until your baby is 6 weeks old.

Recovery from DVT (deep vein thrombosis)

There are things you can do to help you recover from DVT (deep vein thrombosis).

After you leave hospital, you’ll be encouraged to:

• walk regularly
• keep your affected leg raised when you’re sitting
• delay any flights or long journeys until at least 2 weeks after you start taking blood-thinning medicine

How to prevent DVT (deep vein thrombosis)

There are things you can do to lower your chance of getting DVT (deep vein thrombosis).

Do

• stay a healthy weight

• stay active – taking regular walks can help

• drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration – DVT is more likely if you’re dehydrated

Don’t

• do not sit still for long periods of time – get up and move around every hour or so

• do not cross your legs while you’re sitting

• do not smoke

• do not drink lots of alcohol

Going on a long journey

If you’re travelling for 3 hours or more by plane, train or car, there are things you can do during the journey to lower your chances of getting DVT.

These include:

• wearing loose clothing
• drinking plenty of water
• avoiding alcohol
• walking around when possible

Going into hospital

If you go into hospital, your healthcare team should check if there’s a higher chance you’ll get DVT.

If they think you’re more likely to get DVT, you may be given treatment to prevent it, such as medicine or compression stockings (knee-high elastic socks that help your blood circulation), while you’re in hospital.

You may continue treatment after you leave hospital because a blood clot can happen weeks later.

You can also help protect yourself against DVT while you’re in hospital by:

• staying active and walking around if you can
• moving your toes (up and down) and ankles (in circles) if you have to stay in bed – your healthcare team may give you some exercises to do

Page last reviewed: 22 March 2023
Next review due: 22 March 2026

Symptoms in Legs, Lungs, and More

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Arms, Legs
• Heart
• Lungs
• Brain
• Belly
• Kidneys
• More

Ever get a paper cut or nick yourself while shaving? When that happens, a blood clot saves the day. It quickly stops the bleeding, and when it’s done its job, it usually breaks up. Sometimes, though, things can go wrong.

When blood clots don’t fall apart, they can be dangerous and lead to serious medical conditions. You can get them in blood vessels in just about any part of your body. They’re most likely to affect a leg, especially if you sit for long periods of time.

You might get a clot in your arteries, which carry oxygen in your blood from your heart to all the cells of your body. The result can be really serious. It can keep oxygen from getting to your heart, lungs, or brain, and cause a life-threatening emergency, like a heart attack or stroke.

You could also get a clot in the veins that carry blood back to your heart. When that happens, symptoms usually come on more gradually, but can still mean trouble.

If you learn the warning signs, you’re more likely to get quick medical help that can make a huge difference in keeping you out of the danger zone. But it’s important to know that in some cases, clots can happen with few symptoms or none at all. .

See More: Dos and Don’ts of a Blood Clot

When a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins in your arm or leg, way beneath your skin’s surface, it could be something called a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). That’s dangerous because the clot could travel to your heart or lungs.

You’re more likely to get a DVT if you haven’t moved around for a long time, say after surgery or during a long plane trip. Get medical help right away if you notice any of these symptoms:

• Swelling. This can happen in the exact spot where the blood clot forms, or your entire leg or arm could puff up.
• Change in color. You might notice that your arm or leg takes on a red or blue tinge, or gets itchy.
• Pain. As the clot gets worse, you may hurt or get sore. The feeling can range from a dull ache to intense pain. You may notice the pain throbs in your leg, belly, or even your arm.
• Warm skin. The skin around painful areas or in the arm or leg with the DVT may feel warmer than other skin.
• Trouble breathing. If this happens, it could mean that the clot has moved from your arm or leg to your lungs. You may also get a bad cough, and might even cough up blood. You may get pain in your chest or feel dizzy. Call 911 to get medical help right away.
• Lower leg cramp. If the clot is in your calf or lower leg, you may feel like you have a cramp or charley horse.
• Pitting edema. DVT can cause fluid buildup (edema) in the arms or legs. It typically happens quite quickly with DVT. When you press on the swollen area, it can cause a dimple or “pit” (pitting) that remains for a few seconds.
• Swollen, painful veins. The pain may increase with touch.

A blood clot that forms in or around your ticker may cause a heart attack. Watch out for symptoms like these:

• Severe pain in your chest and arm
• Sweating
• Trouble breathing

A blood clot in your lung usually starts out in a deep vein in your arm or leg, then breaks off and travels to your lung. When this happens, you get what’s called a pulmonary embolism, an extremely dangerous condition.

Get medical help right away if you:

• Feel short of breath or have problems breathing
• Get pain in your chest
• Start to cough
• Begin to sweat
• Feel dizzy

Blood clots here may be caused by fatty deposits in the walls of the blood vessels that bring blood to your brain. Or sometimes, they may form because of a blow to your head that leads to a concussion.

In other cases, a clot that starts out in a different part of your body, like your chest or neck, might enter your bloodstream and travel to your brain, where it can cause a stroke.

Watch out for these symptoms:

• Problems with your vision or speech
• A seizure
• General feeling of weakness

Blood clots can happen in the veins that drain blood from your intestines. They can be caused by conditions like diverticulitis or liver disease, or even by birth control pills.

How will you know if this is going on? Check with your doctor if you have problems like these:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Severe pain in your belly, which may be worse after you eat
• Diarrhea
• Bloody stools
• A bloated feeling

A blood clot in your kidneys can keep them from removing waste from your body. That can cause high blood pressure or even kidney failure.

This is dangerous, so look out for these symptoms:

• Pain in the side of your belly, legs, or thighs
• Blood in your urine
• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting
• High blood pressure
• Sudden severe leg swelling
• Trouble breathing

Top Picks

Blood clots.

Signs Not to Ignore

Blood clots can basically be divided into two main groups – dormant clots and clots that travel through the body. When or while the clots are at rest, we speak of thrombosis. For example, deep vein thrombosis is known, which is usually associated with clots in the leg, but can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the arm. On the other hand, we can also talk about embolism. This condition is characterized by the fact that the clot splits off and then moves through the body. When it comes to pulmonary embolism, it can be fatal.

Blood clots: symptoms of deep vein thrombosis.

Deep vein thrombosis is not necessarily associated with very obvious signs, so the problem can go unrecognized for quite some time, increasing the risk of more serious complications. One of the most typical symptoms is pain in the leg or arm in which a blood clot has formed, or increased sensitivity of this limb. Also, the condition is characterized by warm skin in the clot area. Some also observe swelling of the affected limb. In addition, the skin near the clot may turn red or turn purple. Symptoms characteristic of deep vein thrombosis are sometimes similar to the sensations that accompany a tense muscle. For example, those who are more active may mistake signs of deep vein thrombosis for a classic sports injury.

How to determine the risk of pulmonary embolism?

Even with deep vein thrombosis, it is necessary to be able to recognize it quickly and then take action as soon as possible. This is especially important if there is a risk of PE or if the blood clot travels to the lungs. One of the most common symptoms that occurs when a blood clot enters the lungs is chest pain accompanied by difficulty breathing, especially when trying to take a deep breath. At the same time, increased sweating may occur, accompanied by increased heart rate, fever, and a feeling of dizziness. However, sometimes the risk of pulmonary embolism is also indicated by blood-stained cough discharge. Therefore, if you notice any of these signs, or if a person near you has these signs, you need to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Groups in which the risk of blood clots is particularly high.

Blood clots can occur for a variety of reasons and in almost anyone. However, there are groups of people in whom the risk of such complications is particularly high. Therefore, individuals at risk should pay special attention to any symptoms of blood clots. One of the increased risk factors is the use of oral hormonal contraceptives. There is also an increased risk of blood clots in pregnant women, smokers, overweight people, diabetics, people with chronic inflammatory diseases, and some cancer patients.

We can also talk about a higher likelihood of blood clots in older people, especially people over sixty. Lack of physical activity can also contribute to the risk of blood clots. Genetic factors may also be at the root – if blood clotting problems are very common in your family, then special care is required.

Signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis

• July 13, 2021

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more deep veins in your body, usually in your legs. Deep vein thrombosis can cause leg pain or swelling, but may be asymptomatic.

• Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis
• Causes of deep vein thrombosis
• Risk factors
• DVT complications
• Thrombosis prophylaxis

DVT may be associated with diseases that affect the blood clotting process. A blood clot in your legs can also form if you don’t move for a long time, such as after surgery or an accident. But walking extremely long distances can lead to blood clots.

Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition because blood clots in your veins can travel through the bloodstream and get stuck in your lungs, blocking blood flow (pulmonary embolism). However, pulmonary embolism may occur without evidence of DVT.

When DVT and pulmonary embolism occur at the same time, it is called venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of DVT:

• Swelling of the affected leg. In rare cases, swelling appears on both legs.
• Pain in the leg. The pain often starts in the calf and may feel like spasms or soreness.
• Red or discolored skin on the leg.
• Feeling of warmth in the affected leg.

Deep vein thrombosis may occur without noticeable symptoms.

When to see a doctor

If you have signs or symptoms of DVT, see your doctor.

If you have signs or symptoms of pulmonary embolism (PE), a life-threatening complication of deep vein thrombosis, seek emergency medical attention.

Call 103

Warning signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism include:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Pain or discomfort in the chest that is aggravated by taking a deep breath or coughing.
• Feeling dizzy or dizzy or fainting
• Rapid pulse
• Fast breathing
• Cough with blood

Suspect deep vein thrombosis? Contact the professionals.

Causes

Anything that interferes with the normal flow or clotting of blood can cause blood clots.

The main causes of DVT are damage to the vein due to surgery or trauma, and due to inflammation from infection or trauma.

Risk factors

Many factors can increase the risk of developing DVT, which include:

• Age. The risk of DVT increases at age 60, although it can occur at any age.
• Sitting for long periods of time, such as while driving or flying. When your legs remain motionless for several hours, your calf muscles do not contract. Muscle contractions promote blood circulation.
• Prolonged bed rest, such as during a long hospital stay or paralysis. Blood clots can form in the calves if the calf muscles are not used for a long time.
• Injury or surgery. Injury to the veins or surgery may increase the risk of blood clots.
• Pregnancy. Pregnancy increases pressure in the veins of the pelvis and legs. Women with an inherited bleeding disorder are at particular risk. The risk of blood clots as a result of pregnancy may remain up to six weeks after the baby is born.
• Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) or hormone replacement therapy. Both factors can increase the blood’s ability to clot.
• Exposure to drugs or chemicals. Certain drugs may cause blood clots. Before use, consult your doctor.
• Overweight or obese. Excess weight increases pressure in the veins of the pelvis and legs.
• Smoking. Smoking affects clotting and circulation, which may increase the risk of DVT.
• Cancer. Some forms of cancer increase blood levels of substances that cause blood clotting. Some forms of cancer treatment also increase the risk of blood clots.
• Heart failure. Increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Because people with heart failure have limited heart and lung function, symptoms caused by even a small pulmonary embolism are more noticeable.
• Inflammatory bowel disease. Bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, increases the risk of DVT.
• Personal or family history of DVT or PE. If you or someone in your family has had one or both of these, you may be at greater risk of developing DVT.
• Genetics. Some people inherit genetic risk factors or disorders, such as factor V Leiden, that make their blood clot more easily. The hereditary disease itself may not cause blood clots unless it is combined with one or more other risk factors.
• Risk factor unknown. Sometimes a blood clot in a vein can occur without an obvious underlying risk factor. This is called unprovoked VTE.

Complications

DVT complications may include:

• Pulmonary embolism (PE). PE is a potentially life-threatening complication associated with DVT. This happens when a blood vessel in your lung is blocked by a clot that travels to your lung from another part of your body, usually your leg.
  If you have signs and symptoms of PE, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain when inhaling or coughing, rapid breathing, rapid pulse, feeling weak or faint, and coughing up blood can occur with PE.
• Post-phlebitic syndrome. Damage to the veins by a thrombus reduces blood flow to the affected areas, causing leg pain and swelling, skin discoloration and skin ulcers.
• Complications of treatment.