Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in the veins that are deep inside the body. The clot could lead to many complications, and the underlying signs need to be addressed. Just so the telltale signs of deep vein thrombosis don’t go unrecognized, we have compiled the list of symptoms that point toward the condition.

1. Swelling of the limbs
Unusual swelling of the arms and legs accompanied by pain is a telltale sign of DVT. This happens because the normal flow of blood in the area is weakened. This leads to fluid build-up in the area, which triggers inflammation and swelling.

2. Warmth in affected areas
One may notice inflammation around the clot. The skin over this area may feel warmer than the surrounding skin.

3. Laboured breathing
This occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and gets stuck in one of the large branches of the lung arteries. It could make it hard for one to breathe, as the lungs may not efficiently pump oxygen into the bloodstream. This leads to an increased heart rate and risk of pulmonary embolism (PE). PE can be life-threatening. 

4. Chest pain
Blood clots can break loose and travel to the heart. This leads to sharp chest pain that intensifies after taking deep breaths. The pain is comparable to an elephant sitting on you. This could be a sign of a possible cardiac event, such as a heart attack or angina. 

5. Skin discoloration on the arm or leg
The area that’s affected by a clot can easily turn red or blue. As the vein becomes thick and hard, the skin color becomes deeper. The discoloration is caused due to swelling.

6. Visibly bulging veins
Blood clots can make the veins look bulgy and swollen. They are visible to the naked eye, and most of them are located in the legs. Hard and visible veins in the legs or arms are a sign of DVT.

7. Light-headedness
A dislodged clot can pose a risk of heart failure and PE. It can also easily make one feel light-headed and cause dizziness due to the lack of oxygen in the organs.

Other common symptoms associated with the condition are sudden coughing that may bring up blood, irregular or faster than normal heartbeat, pain radiating in the shoulder, arm, back, or jaw, and shortness of breath. It is essential to diagnose this condition as soon as one starts noticing the early signs. This is because DVT can lead to PE. PE occurs when a clot breaks free and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs. This can lead to shock, heart failure, and sometimes, death.