To check for a blood clot in your leg, known medically as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), you should be aware of several key signs and symptoms:
- Swelling in one leg, often sudden and noticeable
- Pain, cramping, soreness, or tenderness in the leg, especially starting in the calf and worsening when standing or walking
- Warmth in the affected area of the leg
- Red or discolored skin on the leg, which may appear red, purple, or bluish depending on your skin tone
- Swollen veins that may feel hard or sore to the touch
- A throbbing sensation in the leg
You can perform a simple self-check called Homan’s Test: lie flat on your back, extend the suspected leg, have someone gently raise it about 10 degrees, then squeeze the calf. Deep pain during this maneuver could indicate a clot, but this test is not definitive and should not replace professional evaluation
. If you notice these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly because DVT can be dangerous. Doctors typically diagnose DVT using a physical exam and imaging tests such as a duplex ultrasound, which shows blood flow in the veins. Blood tests like the D-dimer test may also be used to detect clot- related proteins
. Urgently call emergency services if you experience symptoms suggesting the clot has traveled to your lungs (pulmonary embolism), such as sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or coughing up blood
. In summary, watch for swelling, pain, warmth, and discoloration in one leg, and get medical help immediately if you suspect a blood clot. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent serious complications.
