Blood clots may seem harmless at first, but they can be life-threatening if not detected early. A clot can block blood flow in your veins or arteries, leading to dangerous conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, heart attack, or stroke. Recognizing the symptoms early could save your life.
Here are the top 8 warning signs of blood clots you should watch for
1. Unexplained Swelling
Sudden swelling—especially in the leg, ankle, or arm—is a common sign of a blood clot. The swelling usually occurs on one side of the body and may feel warm to the touch.
2. Sharp Pain or Tenderness
A clot in a deep vein can cause throbbing or cramping pain that doesn’t go away with rest. The pain often starts in the calf or thigh and worsens when walking or standing.