Introduction
Blood clots can be a serious health issue, and it’s important to be aware of the signs that you may have one. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. In this article, we’ll discuss five signs that there may be a blood clot inside you. From pain and swelling in your legs to chest pain and shortness of breath, we’ll cover the most common signs of a blood clot. We’ll also discuss the importance of seeking medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms. So, if you’re concerned that you may have a blood clot, read on to learn more.
5 Signs There’s a Blood Clot Inside You
Blood clots can be dangerous and even life-threatening if left untreated. Knowing the signs of a blood clot can help you get the medical attention you need. Here are five signs that you may have a blood clot inside you.
1. Swelling
If you notice swelling in your arm or leg, it could be a sign of a blood clot. Swelling is caused by the clot blocking the flow of blood in the affected area. If you experience swelling, seek medical attention right away.
2. Pain
Pain is another common symptom of a blood clot. The pain may be localized to the area of the clot or it may be more widespread. If you experience pain in your arm or leg, it could be a sign of a blood clot.
3. Redness
If you notice redness in the area of the clot, it could be a sign of a blood clot. The redness is caused by the clot blocking the flow of blood in the affected area. If you experience redness, seek medical attention right away.
4. Warmth
If you notice that the area of the clot is warm to the touch, it could be a sign of a blood clot. The warmth is caused by the clot blocking the flow of blood in the affected area. If you experience warmth, seek medical attention right away.
5. Discoloration
If you notice discoloration in the area of the clot, it could be a sign of a blood clot. The discoloration is caused by the clot blocking the flow of blood in the affected area. If you experience discoloration, seek medical attention right away.
If you experience any of these signs, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Blood clots can be dangerous and even life-threatening if left untreated. Knowing the signs of a blood clot can help you get the medical attention you need.
According to the CDC, 900,000 Americans are affected by blood clots (venous thromboembolism) every year. “Everyone has different symptoms that can range from none to severe,” says vascular medicine specialist Michael Tran, DO. “But there are common signs and symptoms of blood clots to be aware of.” Here are five signs you have a dangerous blood clot, according to doctors. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
Pain, swelling, and redness in the arms or legs that doesn’t go away could be a sign of blood clotting. “A blood clot is almost always in one leg, not both,” says vascular medicine specialist Geoffrey Barnes, M.D. “We’re talking significant swelling, not just ankle swelling.”
If you are experiencing unexplained shortness of breath, don’t ignore it. “Shortness of breath can be a symptom of many conditions that affect the heart or lungs,” says Anjali Vaidya, MD, FACC, FASE, FACP. “But, it’s an especially alarming symptom for my patients who previously had a blood clot in their lungs, called a pulmonary embolism (PE). For these patients, shortness of breath can be a symptom of a serious condition called chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, or CTEPH for short. Without treatment, CTEPH can lead to heart failure and even death.”
“It may feel like a shooting pain that starts in your front and travels to the back in the chest area,” says Dr. Tran. “You may also feel chest heaviness or pressure that lasts. If it’s just fleeting, goes away and doesn’t happen again, you’re probably not dealing with a blood clot.”
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If you are experiencing spasms and cramps that don’t go away, it could be a blood clot. “Once the pain begins, it’s generally consistent and does not let up,” says vascular surgeon Lee Kirksey, M.D.
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The COVID-19 virus is linked to an increased risk of blood clots, doctors warn. “COVID-19 damages the endothelium (the cellular lining of blood vessels),” says Ali Aminian, MD, Director of the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at Cleveland Clinic. “Autopsies have shown that blood clots and widespread severe endothelial damage are two of the causes of increased mortality in many patients who contract COVID-19.”
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Follow the public health fundamentals and help end this pandemic, no matter where you live—get vaccinated or boosted ASAP; if you live in an area with low vaccination rates, wear an N95 face mask, don’t travel, social distance, avoid large crowds, don’t go indoors with people you’re not sheltering with (especially in bars), practice good hand hygiene, and to protect your life and the lives of others, don’t visit any of these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.