There are certain signs that you need to seek immediate medical attention
Brits have been urged to dial 999 if they notice two potentially fatal symptoms of a blood clot. According to the NHS, these warning signs could suggest that the clot has moved to the lungs, requiring urgent medical attention.
Whilst some blood clotting is essential to prevent excessive bleeding from cuts, clots that fail to dissolve naturally can create serious complications by blocking blood flow to various parts of the body. “Blood clots can be very serious and need to be treated quickly,” the NHS says.
In most instances, a blood clot will initially develop in a vein within the leg or arm. This condition is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
DVT symptoms in the leg include:
- Throbbing pain in one leg (rarely both legs), usually in the calf or thigh, when walking or standing up
- Swelling in one leg (rarely both legs)
- Warm skin around the painful area
- Red or darkened skin around the painful area – this may be harder to see on brown or black skin
- Swollen veins that are hard or sore when you touch them
The NHS says: “These symptoms can also happen in your arm or tummy if that’s where the blood clot is.” What causes particular alarm is when the blood clot travels to an organ such as the brain or lungs.
Therefore, the NHS urges people to ring 999 or visit A&E if you experience DVT (deep vein thrombosis) symptoms, such as pain and swelling, alongside:
This means you could be experiencing a pulmonary embolism. The NHS says: “DVT can be very serious because blood clots can travel to your lungs.
“This is called a pulmonary embolism. A pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening and needs treatment straight away.”
If you are displaying these symptoms you should not drive yourself to A&E. The NHS website adds: “Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.”
There are several factors that can increase your likelihood of developing a blood clot. These include if you:
- Are aged over 60
- Are carrying excess weight
- Are a smoker
- Have previously suffered from DVT
- Use the contraceptive pill or hormone replacement therapy
- Are living with cancer or heart failure
- Suffer from varicose veins
There are also certain circumstances when your chances of developing DVT are heightened. These include if you:
- Are currently in hospital or have recently been discharged – particularly if your mobility is limited (such as following surgery)
- Are bedridden
- Undertake lengthy journeys (exceeding three hours) by aircraft, car or train
- Are expecting a baby or have given birth within the past six weeks
- Are suffering from dehydration
Nevertheless, DVT can sometimes occur for “no obvious reason”. Fortunately, there are measures you can implement to reduce your risk of developing a blood clot.
These are:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Keep active – regular walks can be beneficial
- Ensure you’re well-hydrated to prevent dehydration – DVT is more likely if you’re dehydrated
- Avoid sitting still for extended periods – aim to get up and move around every hour or so
- Refrain from crossing your legs while seated
- Avoid smoking
- Limit alcohol consumption
If diagnosed with a blood clot, you may be prescribed anticoagulant medications like warfarin. Surgery may also be required to remove or prevent the formation of blood clots.