Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Signs, Risks and What to Do

A clot forming deep in a leg vein can start quietly and become dangerous fast. DVT affects about 1–2 people per 1,000 each year. Most clots stay in the leg, but some break off and travel to the lungs — that’s a pulmonary embolism (PE), which can be life‑threatening. Knowing the signs and simple prevention moves can make a big difference.

Spotting DVT: what to watch for

Common signs are sudden swelling in one leg, pain or cramping (often in the calf), warmth, and red or discolored skin. The pain may feel like a pulled muscle but won’t improve with rest. If you get sudden shortness of breath, sharp chest pain, fainting, or a fast heartbeat, treat it as an emergency — those can be signs of a PE.

Diagnosis usually starts with a medical history and exam, then a D‑dimer blood test and a duplex ultrasound of the leg. Ultrasound is the most common test because it’s quick and accurate for most clots. In rare cases doctors may use venography or CT scans.

Treatment and what to expect

Anticoagulants (blood thinners) are the main treatment. They don’t dissolve the clot quickly, but they stop it growing and lower the chance of new clots. Common options include low‑molecular‑weight heparin, warfarin, and the newer direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like rivaroxaban or apixaban. Treatment length varies — often three months for a clot with a clear cause (like surgery) and longer if risks persist.

Other measures can help: compression stockings to ease swelling and soreness, and in certain cases procedures to remove a clot or an IVC filter to prevent clots reaching the lungs. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks based on your health and clot size.

Some people need extra care: pregnant people, those with cancer, or people with inherited clotting disorders often need a tailored plan. Always tell your provider about recent surgery, hormone therapy, long flights, or family history of clots.

Practical prevention tips you can use right away:

• Move every hour on long trips — walk, flex your ankles, and stretch calves.
• Stay hydrated and avoid heavy alcohol before long travel.
• Ask your doctor about blood‑thinner shots before and after major surgery.
• Wear fitted compression socks on long flights if you’re at higher risk.
• Quit smoking, manage weight, and treat high blood pressure or diabetes.

If you think you have DVT, seek medical care quickly. Early diagnosis and proper treatment cut the risk of complications. And if you ever get sudden chest pain or severe breathlessness, call emergency services right away — that could save your life.