Blood clot. These two words can be terribly
scary.
We have all seen a blood clot in the form
of a scab and bruise. But sometimes the blood clots when it isn't supposed to.
When this happens, you can suffer from serious medical problems such as stroke
or heart attack.
Here's how to tell if you or a loved one
has a dangerous blood clot:
1. Swelling in a limb. This is a symptom of
a type of blood clot called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) which prevents blood
from flowing through the circulatory system. DVT is particularly dangerous
because it blocks oxygen from reaching vital organs, says Prevention.
2. Pain .
the National Blood Clot Alliance. This pain is sometimes described as a
cramp or a horse charley.
3. Red streaks on your skin. Remember that
a bruise is a form of blood clot. But if you see red streaks running the length
of your veins, know that this isn't a normal bruise. Seeking immediate medical
attention. Preventiion says that these red streaks often making limb warmed to
touch.
4. Chest pain also deep breathing. If you
experience these symptoms together, the National Blood Clot Alliance says you
might have a blood clot in your lungs, known as pulmonary embolism (PE). If you
have any of these symptoms, see a doctor straight away as this blood clot can
quickly become fatal.
5. Shortness of breath. If you have trouble
breathing deeply, you may have a blood clot or PE in your lungs, says
Prevention. You may also feel a pounding in the chest, a pounding heart, or
dizziness. Each of these symptoms requires immediate medical attention.
6. Unexplained cough. If you cough for no
reason, Prevention says to pay attention to your heart rate, chest, and
breathing. If you have an unexplained cough with any of the symptoms above,
call your doctor.
If you think you or a loved one has a blood
clot, see a doctor straight away. Call your doctor or 911 or go to the
hospital. A blood clot can be fatal. Don't take the risk.
