Renowned American television personality Al Roker recently returned to our screens after a two-month break where he was dealing with a severe health scare. He was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with severe deep vein thrombosis (DVT). He said that he had major surgery on his colon and duodenum and had to have his gallbladder removed.
While the story of Al Roker is downright scary, knowing the signs of DVT can help prevent such scenarios.
So, here are common signs of DVT you should be aware of:
Swelling and Pain in the Leg
Sudden and unexplained leg pain can be a symptom of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The pain may be accompanied by swelling. If the clot is located in the thigh or around the calf area, only that leg will experience swelling. Both legs will be affected if the clot is located in the pelvis.
Warmth in One Area
A patient may also notice a warm spot on their skin. The area might be red, discolored, and itchy. If you have an unusual spot on your skin, you should see your doctor immediately to rule out DVT.
Swollen Veins
Varicose veins may also signal that a patient has DVT. Research has shown that individuals with varicose veins are more likely to develop DVT. Therefore, if you notice the development of varicose veins, you must visit a doctor for examination and close monitoring of the condition.
If you notice any of the above symptoms, please visit your doctor immediately so they can determine the underlying cause of the problem. If left untreated, DVT can lead to life-threatening conditions such as pulmonary embolism.
