Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition in which a blood clot is formed in one or more deep veins in the body, particularly in the lower extremities, i.e., anywhere from the hip to feet. It is observed in other parts of the body as well but those cases are quite rare. DVT can result in a multitude of acute health concerns—and in some cases, even prove to be fatal—if not tackled appropriately.

Several factors can result in the onset of DVT, including injury to veins, hormonal medications, smoking, past surgeries, lack of physical activity, hereditary blood disorders, and a sedentary lifestyle, among many others.

Being aware of the early warning symptoms of deep vein thrombosis is extremely crucial in order to treat it fully. Here are some of the early signs and symptoms that you should observe and report at the earliest:

• Leg pain
  One of the most common early signs of DVT is a sharp, painful sensation that originates from the calves and travels throughout the leg, giving a feeling of cramping or soreness. In some cases, the pain may also be accompanied by swelling.
• Discoloration of skin
  Often, the affected area of the leg will turn reddish or may even develop bluish tints. Skin discoloration is a huge indicator of deep vein thrombosis. At times, one can also feel lumps beneath the concerned area of the skin.
• Warmth

A sudden, strange, and noticeable warming sensation that develops in some areas of the leg without any external stimulus should not be taken lightly. This portion of skin may sometimes be tender to touch. In this case, a doctor’s opinion should be sought as soon as possible.

• Chest pain
  When you experience sudden, sharp pain arising in the chest, which only sharpens as you breathe deeper, it is recommended that you consult a doctor as soon as possible. This is because it can be a sign of pulmonary embolism (PE), a condition in which the blood clot that causes DVT travels to the lungs.
• Rapid heart rate
  If you experience an unexpected spike in your heart rate or pulse, then you should call for medical intervention the very next minute. It may be an early symptom of PE and if not treated on time, can cause organ damage or even death.

A blood clot usually forms due to slow-flowing blood that solidifies into clumps in certain veins. Deep vein thrombosis can also occur without symptoms, so one must actively keep an eye out for potential red flags. Having mentioned this, DVT, if detected, can be treated in a variety of ways. Some of them include blood-thinning medications or anticoagulants, inferior vena cava (IVC) filters, or superficial remedies such as hot or cold compresses.