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DVT can affect the young as well as the old. Daniel Allan/Polka Dot/Getty Images
Deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot in a vein deep in the leg or elsewhere in the body. When blood becomes stagnant, such as when you have been lying in bed in a hospital or sitting on an airplane for a long time, the potential exists for your blood to clot. That's why DVT is often referred to a "economy-class syndrome.'' In about half the cases, DVT presents no symptoms, but when there are, swelling, pain and redness may be present.
When to Act
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If your DVT doesn't resolve on its own, see your doctor. If you develop signs or symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, in which the blood clot breaks off and travels to an artery of a lung, seek medical help immediately. Don't wait for an appointment with your doctor. A pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening complication of DVT.
Chest Pain
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Symptoms can feel like a heart attack and include a sudden and unexplained period of shortness of breath. When a pulmonary embolism is present, your chest pain might become more pronounced with coughing or taking a deep breath. It is less likely to feel like discomfort all over the chest.
Other Symptoms
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In addition, feeling that you might faint or are light-headed could be another sign of pulmonary embolism, as is a sense of nervousness or anxiety or coughing up blood. If any of these symptoms are present, seek emergency help.
Avoiding DVT
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When you have been sitting for a long time in a cramped space, such as in economy class on an airplane, get up and walk up and down the aisle. This helps to break up any blood clots that could be forming. Likewise, if you have been seated at your desk in one position for a half hour or more, get up and walk around for a few minutes. If you are pregnant, there is extra stress on veins. Get out and have a walk every day.
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