A painful leg after a long day at work is something most of us ignore. We assume it’s because we’ve been standing too long, sitting for hours, or simply overworked.
But sometimes, that pain could be the first sign of something much more serious—Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
DVT is a condition in which a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the leg. If this clot breaks loose, it can travel to the lungs and block blood flow. This is called a pulmonary embolism, a medical emergency that can be life-threatening.
The worrying part is that DVT often gives only mild symptoms in the beginning. Many people ignore them until they suddenly develop severe breathlessness, chest pain, or even collapse.
The warning signs to watch for are:
● Pain in one calf or leg
● Swelling of one leg
● Sudden breathlessness
● Chest pain
If you notice these symptoms, especially leg pain or swelling followed by breathing difficulty, do not ignore them. Visit your nearest hospital immediately.
DVT can affect anyone, but the risk is higher after prolonged sitting or bed rest, following surgery, during pregnancy, in people with cancer, and after long-distance travel. We also saw a rise in cases during the COVID-19 pandemic, and doctors continue to see DVT in younger people.
The good news is that DVT can usually be diagnosed quickly with a Doppler ultrasound and treated effectively with blood-thinning medicines. When detected early, most patients recover well and serious complications can be prevented.
The most important treatment is not to ignore the warning signs.
Just as we stay alert to protect our money and valuables, we should also stay alert to protect our health. Recognizing the early symptoms of DVT and seeking medical attention without delay can save a life—perhaps even your own.
Dr Ravikumar B L
Senior Vascular surgeon
Dr Ravi’s vascular centre
Bangalore
