Blood is an important component of life. Blood loss can harm a person and at worst, can lead to death. The mechanism of the body is mapped to alert the person who has been injured through pain and the healing process starts immediately on its own, immaterial of external help is in hand or not. One of the processes that the body initiates to control blood loss is blood clot. Deep vein thrombosis is one such occurrence which can interfere in a person’s life and create challenges.

Deep vein thrombosis and its symptoms
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where a blood clot appears in the veins of the affected person. This affects the blood flow in the area causing an adverse reaction on the body.

Symptoms of DVT

Pain
One of the earliest signals that a patient might be affected by deep vein thrombosis is pain. Pain is the body’s natural way of communication on a need for attention. When a blood clot appears, the movement of blood on the affected area is slower than the normal levels. This signals the brain to emanate pain seeking the attention of the individual. Apart from this, chest pain can be resultant of DVT.

Redness of skin
When the blood clot takes place, the affected area is clogged by solid blood. When the affected vein is closer to the skin surface, an individual can identify the redness of the skin.

Leg cramps
Leg cramps occur when the muscles in the leg become tight and painful. Leg cramps generally occur at night when there is limited movement of the muscles. It relates to the blood clot as there is a limited flow of blood and subsequent inactivity of the muscles.

Swelling
Swelling appears in the affected area of the blood clot as the fluid builds up. Once the blood clot is treated, it helps reduce the swelling as well. Veins can also swell and seem enlarged, which can be seen through the skin.

Discoloration of skin
Apart from the redness of the skin, it is noted that patients have shown discoloration of the skin resulting in whitish color or bluish skin.

Tenderness of skin
Tenderness can be felt over the leg, foot, or arm. While the tenderness is felt, pain is accompanied when the person walks or stands.

The reasons behind deep vein thrombosis
Several factors can cause deep vein thrombosis, listed below are some of the common reasons why deep vein thrombosis develops.

• Trauma
• Extended hospitalization
• Surgery
• Pregnancy
• Prolonged sitting or standing
• Obesity
• Medications
• Smoking
• Genetic disorder
• Cancer
• Aging
• Heart or lung ailments

Most of these factors are directly or indirectly connected to the lack of mobility causing deep vein thrombosis. While some of the factors can be prevented and corrected by lifestyle changes inclusive of exercise, balanced diet, and conscious effort to be mobile, others will most definitely require the doctor’s intervention to correct the prognosis.