What are the Signs and Symptoms of a DVT?

Now that you've learned more about Factor V Leiden and blood clots, you might be looking into your past and wondering if you've ever had a blood clot, or how would you recognize if you got one in the future.

Clots can appear anywhere, but most DVTs are located in the calf area of the lower leg. Another common spot, though must less frequent, is in the upper arm.

Signs to watch out for include:

• Swelling- the affected area will swell significantly
• Redness- the affected area will turn red or light pink
• Tenderness- the affected area will be tender to the touch, especially if "brushed"
• Fever (elevated temperature)- the affected area will become warmer than normal
• Pain when moving- when trying to move, the affected area will ache tremendously

When it comes to blood clots, nothing is absolute. The only way to confirm that you have a clot is to have it examined, since many other things can cause these same symptoms. The most common approach is to head to radiology for an ultrasound. An ultrasound has the ability to measure blood flow in the veins. If the blood flow is abnormal or restricted, they can accurately diagnose a blood clot. And if the clot is facing in the right direction, they will be able to tell if its a boy or a girl (joke!).

One bit of bad news for those that have recurring clots is the fact that ultrasounds cannot detect whether a clot is newly formed or simply vein damage from previous clotting experiences. Remember- the ultrasound only measures blood flow, it doesn't actually see a clot. It's the same theory as a black hole in space. No one can see it, but by watching the environment and reaction of things around it, they know its there.

Therefore, if you are like me and have significant vein damage, your blood will always appear to be restricted, and therefore you will be diagnosed with a clot even though you might not have a newly formed clot. In this circumstance the treatment is the same and its off to the hospital you go for the Heparin drip. The doctors will always (should) err on the side of caution.