Blood clots are common, potentially life-threatening, but treatable and generally preventable disorders that include two related conditions:
1. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is abnormal clotting of the blood in a deep vein, generally in one or more veins of the leg or pelvis
2. Pulmonary Embolism (PE) occurs when a DVT breaks free from its original site in a vein and then travels through the bloodstream into the lungs.
Why Blood Clots are Dangerous
-
Up to one million Americans suffer from blood clots every year, often resulting in hospitalization.
-
More than 100,000 Americans die from pulmonary embolisms every year, which is more than the combined deaths from breast cancer, AIDS and traffic accidents.
-
Blood clots can kill quickly, or they may result in long-term pain, swelling of the affected leg and difficulty walking.
DVT and PE are considered medical emergencies that require immediate care.
Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis
- Recent swelling of one leg
- Unexplained pain or tenderness in one leg
- Increased warmth in the area of the leg that's swollen or in pain
- Red or discolored skin on the leg
Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism
- Recent or sudden shortness of breath
- Sharp chest pain, especially when breathing in
- Coughing up blood
- Sudden collapse