Blood clots in the venous system (VTE) are a leading cause of preventable death. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) forms in deep leg veins; pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a clot travels to the lungs.
Risk factors include prolonged immobility, surgery, cancer, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, inherited clotting disorders, and obesity.
DVT presents with leg pain, swelling, warmth, and redness. PE causes sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, and rapid heart rate and can be fatal without treatment.
Treatment uses anticoagulants (blood thinners) for 3-6 months. Prevention includes compression stockings, early mobilization, adequate hydration, and prophylactic anticoagulation in high-risk situations.
Possible Causes
Related Symptoms
Describe your symptoms and get a structured clinical-style output: possible causes, red flags, recommended tests, and next steps.
Start Free AI Analysis →