DVT: leg swelling that needs prompt assessment

What DVT means

Deep vein thrombosis is a clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg. Possible signs include throbbing calf or thigh pain, swelling in one limb, skin colour changes or prominent veins. Colour changes may be less obvious on darker skin. These symptoms have other causes too, and appearance or touch cannot confirm a clot.

Seek urgent assessment

Get urgent medical assessment if DVT is suspected. Mention recent surgery or hospital admission, reduced mobility, long travel, previous clots, pregnancy or recent childbirth, and oestrogen-containing hormones. Blood tests and ultrasound may be needed depending on the assessment. Do not wait for swelling to settle or start blood thinners or aspirin independently.

When it becomes an emergency

Breathlessness or chest pain accompanying leg symptoms requires an immediate ambulance call. A clot may have travelled to the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening pulmonary embolism. Do not drive yourself. For general prevention, move regularly and break up prolonged sitting when safe. After surgery or during pregnancy, follow your individual prevention plan. Compression stockings or medicines are not substitutes for assessment of new symptoms. If treatment is prescribed, ask about follow-up and bleeding signs requiring help.

Safety note

This is general educational information, not a diagnosis or an individual treatment plan, and it does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Needs vary; seek urgent care for warning signs rather than delaying for online advice.