What Does a Blood Clot Feel Like? Signs and Symptoms to Know
Key Takeaways:
- Blood clots are a potentially serious condition that should never be ignored. Seek medical attention immediately.
- Clots often form in the legs and can travel through your body to the lungs and heart, which can be fatal.
- Treatment includes blood thinners and possibly surgery.
- The best prevention is to exercise regularly, avoid long periods of sitting or inactivity, and wear compression socks.
News of NFL quarterback Jalen Hurts getting sidelined because doctors diagnosed blood clots in his legs initially and now his lungs. It is alarming. He’s young, fit and strong, seemingly the epitome of health.
Vascular Surgeon Jennifer Ellis, MD, medical director of the University of Rochester Medicine Vein Care Center, shares what you need to know about blood clots.
Should I Be Worried About Blood Clots?
A blood clot forms when blood thickens and clumps in a vein. It usually happens in a leg, where the veins are working hard to defy gravity and pump blood back to the heart and lungs.
An injury can cause it to form, like taking a cleat to the calf, as Hurts experienced on the football field. Other contributors include:
- Inactivity, especially during a long-distance flight
- Immobility
- Surgeries or joint replacements
- Obesity
- Pregnancy, when the vascular system is working in overdrive because of the growing fetus
What Does a Blood Clot Feel Like?
A blood clot is usually painful and may present as a swollen, red area that feels warm to the touch. Contact your care team promptly if you experience these symptoms.
There are two types of blood clots, or thrombi:
Superficial Thrombophlebitis (SVT)
These are known as superficial blood clots. They form in the veins just under the skin. They are not dangerous but can be very painful.
Treatment includes a combination of warm compresses, rest and elevation of the leg, compression stockings to support the healthy veins, and anti-inflammatory pain relievers.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
These clots form deep in the muscles of the leg. Symptoms are similar to those of the less-serious clots, though DVT can occur without noticeable symptoms.
These clots are more dangerous because they travel through the body and become life-threatening. Contact your physician or care team to discuss your symptoms.
When a clot moves to the lungs, it interrupts air flow and can cause:
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Chest pains
- A bad cough
- Dizziness or fainting
These symptoms require immediate medical attention.
DVT treatment begins with blood thinners to break up the clot. Many people are prescribed this anti-coagulation therapy for three to six months. In some cases, surgical removal is needed, depending on where the clot is.
How to Prevent Blood Clots
An active, healthy lifestyle is key to preventing blood clots. You can take steps to reduce long periods of inactivity:
- Exercise regularly.
- Stand and stretch often if you have a desk job. Try chair exercise, or flex or rotate your ankles frequently. Take the long way to the restroom.
- Stay hydrated.
- Take medications as prescribed.
- Wear compression stockings for long travel or inactivity.
Know When to Seek Care
If you’re concerned about blood clot symptoms, talk with your health care team. Learn where to get care at University of Rochester Medicine.
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