13 common early warning signs of blood clots
Blood clots help stop bleeding and facilitate the repair of injured blood vessels. They usually dissolve once the healing process is complete. But sometimes, clots persist or form without visible injuries, potentially leading to health complications. Every year, almost 900,000 people are affected by this problem. Below are a few common early warning signs that can help people detect an abnormal blood clot and seek the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Early warning signs of blood clots
An intricate network of blood vessels extends throughout the human body, so clots can develop in various locations. The following early warning signs should prompt one to seek immediate expert attention:
Swelling
A blood clot may affect either veins or arteries. Both types of blood vessels are tasked with supplying blood and oxygen to and from the heart. If a clot appears abnormally in a vein, it can restrict blood flow to one’s heart and cause inflammation. The condition often causes localized swelling in an arm or leg.
Pain and tenderness
The area around the blood clot may become painful, tender, or sore. The discomfort can range from a dull ache to intense pain or leg cramps.
Redness and warmth
The skin over the clot may appear reddish or feel warm to the touch because of increased blood flow to the region. Pain, inflammation, and redness are more common in Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), a type of blood clot that affects a deep vein (typically in the leg).
Skin discoloration
One may see bluish or reddish skin discoloration. A change in skin color can indicate poor circulation and clot formation.
Unexplained shortness of breath
Shortness of breath can result from pulmonary embolism (PE), a condition where a blood clot travels to the lungs and obstructs blood flow, making breathing hard. If someone experiences sudden shortness of breath, they must seek immediate expert attention.