It’s estimated that between 60 000 and 100 000 people in the US die each year due to blood clots.
But despite how common it is, and despite the many medications available, there are still many people who die from blood clots. They either seek help too late – or not at all.
Of course, there are things we can do to take care of ourselves. Together we can help increase awareness – and being aware of the life-saving warning signals that your body sends out can hopefully encourage more people to seek treatment as early as possible.
A blood clot occurs when blood thickens in the blood vessels and forms a blockage. This makes it more difficult for normal blood flow to continue through the blockage – and large blood clots can lead to heart attacks or heart failure.
Often, it is not possible to explain why an individual gets a blood clot. It can also be difficult to detect because the symptoms can be mild.
Therefore, it is extra important to know the warning signals that your body sends, so that you can seek treatment ASAP. Below we have listed 8 signals that everyone should be aware of.
1. Swollen calves
Blood clots often build in the calves. This is known as deep vein thrombosis, DVT, and occurs when oxygen fails to reach vital organs. This in turn causes bad blood circulation and further calve swelling – a common symptom of blood clots.
Apart from swelling and a warm sensation, there can also be redness or discoloration when a blood clot occurs.
2. Pain or tenderness in the legs
Another common sign of DVT is pain in your legs, calves or feet.
Your calf may also feel sore or tense when you squeeze it.
