If you think you are experiencing symptoms of DVT, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Symptoms of DVT include swelling of the limb, tenderness, pain, and significantly red skin color.
Medical Illustration Copyright © 2007 Nucleus Medical Art, All rights reserved
Symptoms of DVT
Because the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can mimic those of other disorders, it is under-diagnosed and under-treated. There may be minor symptoms or none at all. In fact, in approximately one-half of individuals with DVT, the symptoms are not quickly diagnosed. It is estimated that more than 20% of DVT cases are missed in the emergency room because symptoms are not clearly recognized.
A DVT can occur suddenly, with little warning, or it may develop gradually. It is a serious condition that can become a medical emergency. It should be treated promptly and appropriately.
The most common symptoms of DVT are:
- Sudden swelling in the leg or arm
- Limb pain, tenderness
- Pain upon touching the affected area
- Skin that is overly warm (or feverish) to the touch
- Significantly red skin color
- Lack of pulse in the extremities
Correctly diagnosing DVT is challenging because other conditions exhibit similar symptoms, including:
- Muscle strains
- Arterial insufficiency
- Edema due to congestive heart failure
- Stress fracture
- Renal failure
- Liver disease
- Arthritis
- Skin infections
- Achilles tendonitis