Every year, tens of thousands of people in the US die from blood clots, often because they did not get timely medical help. Blood clots happen when blood thickens and blocks circulation, which can lead to serious problems like heart attacks or strokes. Because some symptoms can be subtle or easily mistaken for other issues, it is vital to recognize early warning signs and seek treatment quickly.
One of the most common signs of a clot is swelling in one calf or leg. This swelling may feel warm and the skin around it could appear red or discolored. You might also feel pain or tenderness, especially when standing or walking. Sometimes red stripes appear near the veins, showing inflammation.
Blood clots can form in the lungs, causing sharp chest pain that may feel like a stabbing sensation on one side. Difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, cold sweats, dizziness, or fainting are serious signs that require immediate medical help.
A persistent dry cough without infection, especially if accompanied by chest pain or breathing trouble, can also signal a lung clot. Rarely, coughing up blood is a dangerous sign.
Clots in the abdomen can cause severe stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea with traces of blood. Headaches, vision problems, speech difficulties, numbness, or weakness on one side of the body may indicate a clot in the brain, also known as a stroke.
By knowing these eight warning signs, you can help protect yourself and others. If you notice any of them, don’t hesitate to see a doctor. Early intervention saves lives.
