Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins of your body, usually in your legs. This typically causes swelling and pain at the site. Clots can break off from a DVT in the legs and travel to the lung, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE), which can be fatal.
350,000—600,000 people in the United States develop blood clots every year. About 100,000 people in the U.S. die each year from blood clots, which means that about 1 of 3 may die.
You are at increased risk for developing a blood clot if any of the following describes you now or recently (in last 3 months):
The symptoms of a blood clot may feel similar to a pulled muscle or a “Charlie horse,” but may also differ in that the leg may be swollen, slightly discolored, and warm. Contact your doctor if you have these symptoms, because you may need treatment right away.
Go to an Emergency Department immediately to be diagnosed and treated
Reference:
The Surgeon General’s Call to Action
to Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism, US Dept of
Health and Human Services, 2008.