Deep Vein Thrombisis
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) can occur almost anywhere in the body, but is very common in the legs. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein somewhere in the body. In general people who are forced to sit still for extended periods of time, like while riding in a plane or a long road trip in a car, have a high risk of being affected by deep vein thrombosis. While this condition is usually very painful, it carries with it a very serious risk of death. While rare, but not unheard of, the blood clot may break loose and move to the lungs where it blocks the blood flow and creates a pulmonary embolism like the one that killed the journalist David Bloom early in the second Iraq War.
Symptoms of DVT
Deep vein thrombosis carries with it a few specific symptoms. Typically the patent will see some swelling in the leg, especially near the foot and ankle. The skin may start to change color in the leg, potentially turning either red, blue, or turning completely pale. The skin may start to feel warm to the touch, especially in the swollen areas. The most usual complaint with DVT is severe pain in the calf, ankle, or foot. Typically the pain begins as a cramping or charley horse in the lower leg. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it is important to make an appointment with an orthopedic doctor right away.
