Blood clots can form in the deep veins, resulting in deep vein thrombosis. Prolonged inactivity usually causes these blood clots, which often develop in the calves or thighs. Clots interfere with blood flow and can cause serious damage, even death, if not treated. Clots can break away and travel to the heart or lungs. Plaque buildup from cholesterol and other fatty substances in the arteries can narrow the arteries, increasing the risk of clots forming. Blocked blood flow to the heart or brain leads to heart attack or stroke.
Leg Pain and Swelling
Blood clots in the deep veins of the leg may cause pain along with redness, warmth and swelling in the lower leg. The pain and swelling can be felt in the area of the clot. These clots are called deep vein thrombosis, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. The clots pose danger because they can break off and travel to the heart and cause a heart attack or reach the lungs, causing life-threatening pulmonary embolism. Clots in the legs often occur because people may stay in one position for a long time, such as sitting for long hours in cars or in flight.
Chest Pain
Chest pain and upper body discomfort that may include the arms, back, neck or jaw indicate possible heart attack, according to the American Heart Association. The heart loses oxygen and starts to die. Sharp, stabbing chest pains that worsen indicate a pulmonary embolism when a blood clot travels to the lung. Signs may be accompanied by rapid heart rate and coughing up blood or blood-streaked sputum, according to PDR Health, the website of the Physicians’ Desk Reference.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath can occur from a clot in an artery blocking blood flow to the heart or a clot from deep vein thrombosis that breaks off and travels to the lung. Dizziness or lightheadedness may result. Heart attack victims may break out in a cold sweat or feel nauseous. People with pulmonary embolism may be experiencing a sudden drop in blood pressure along with shortness of breath.
Partial Paralysis
Partial paralysis in different parts of the body suggests a blood clot in the brain may be causing a stroke. Paralysis may cause changes in speech or trouble speaking, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Numbness may occur on one side. Arms or other parts of the body become impaired because the clot cuts off blood flow to the brain, causing the brain cells to die within several minutes. A stroke can lead to brain damage, disability, temporary or permanent paralysis and death.
