DVT.

DVT, also known as deep vein thrombosis, is the forming of a blood clot in a deep vein. This is typically found in a thigh or calf muscle. DVT is capable of partially or totally blocking the blood flow to that part of the body, which brings about swelling and chronic pain. It can damage the valves in blood vessels, which will make it a challenge to walk. This blood clot can also separate from the vein and move to major organs by going through the blood. If this blood clot hits your heart or lungs, it can be very dangerous and may even cause death within a matter of hours.

There are ways to recognize if you have this as DVT symptoms are relatively easy to see. Following are signs you should definitely pay attention to:

- Noticeable swelling occurring in 1 or both legs.

- Tenderness or pain in either 1 or both legs which may hit only while walking or standing.

- A feeling of warmth in the skin of the leg in question.

- Skin that is red or discolored.

- Feeling of fatigue in the legs.

- Surface veins that are visible.

A blood clot that is able to travel to the lungs is known as a pulmonary embolism. This can be fatal. You may not notice any symptoms, but if you ever suddenly begin severe coughing that produces blood, along with sharp chest pain, difficulty in breathing, or extreme lightheadedness, you MUST get help IMMEDIATELY. Call 911 or have someone drive you to the emergency room.

Many people pay little attention to swelling or feelings of tiredness in the legs. Admittedly, these, alone, may not have anything to do with DVT. However, if you put those together with any of the other symptoms presented here, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. If you are presenting all of the symptoms, you should head straight to the emergency room so that you can be examined and tested to see if you have DVT.

The thing you need to understand is that once DVT begins, you are going to need some medical advice or help in getting rid of it. You are putting yourself in danger if you ignore all of these symptoms at once. There are measures that can be taken to protect you from sudden death involving DVT, but if you wait too long, you are lessening your chances of survival.