Description

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. Deep vein thrombosis can cause leg pain or swelling. Sometimes there are no noticeable symptoms. Blood clot in leg vein A blood clot in a leg vein may cause pain, warmth and tenderness in the affected area. You can get deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if you have certain medical conditions that affect how the blood clots. A blood clot in the legs can also develop if you don't move for a long time. For example, you might not move a lot when traveling a long distance or when you're on bed rest due to surgery, an illness or an accident. Deep vein thrombosis can be serious because blood clots in the veins can break loose. The clots can then travel through the bloodstream and get stuck in the lungs, blocking blood flow (pulmonary embolism). When DVT and pulmonary embolism occur together, it's called venous thromboembolism (VTE). Products & Services Assortment of Compression Products at Mayo Clinic Store Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition Newsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter — Digital Edition Symptoms Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) symptoms can include: Leg swelling Leg pain, cramping or soreness that often starts in the calf Change in skin color on the leg — such as red or purple, depending on the color of your skin A feeling of warmth on the affected leg Deep vein thrombosis can occur without noticeable symptoms. When to see a doctor If you develop symptoms of DVT, contact your health care provider.