Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that develops within a vein, usually in the leg.

Symptoms of DVT

Swelling
Swelling can happen in any part of your leg, but usually happens in the back of the leg.
tenderness
throbbing pain – if the clot is in your leg, pain is usually in the calf or thigh when walking or standing up, and pain may be worse when you bend your foot upwards towards your knee

Warm, red or darkened skin around the painful area

• swollen veins that are hard or sore when you touch them
• breathlessness
• chest pain

Diagnosing DVT

ultrasound scan
 X-ray of the vein (venogram)

Preventing DVT

You can help reduce your risk of getting DVT by making changes to your lifestyle.

Do

• eat a healthy, balanced diet
• keep active
• stay a healthy weight

Don’t

• do not smoke
• do not sit down for long periods
• do not drink lots of alcohol
• do not cross your legs when you’re sitting down