A blood clot in the upper leg or thigh can occur for a number of reasons, including recent surgery, prolonged bed rest or inactivity, use of medications that contain hormones or giving birth within the last six months, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Patients who develop symptoms of a blood clot in the upper leg should seek medical care. Without appropriate treatment, blood clots can travel to the lungs, causing a life-threatening medical condition called pulmonary embolism.
Upper Leg Pain
Patients who develop a blood clot in the upper leg can experience thigh pain as a symptom of this condition, the University of California Los Angeles Health System reports. Sensations of pain or tenderness can be localized in a specific region of the thigh or may extend from above the knee into the buttocks. Patients may notice that upper leg pain is more severe when weight is placed on the affected leg. Upper leg pain or tenderness can become progressively worse as the blood clot persists.
Upper Leg Swelling
When a blood clot forms within the upper leg, it can cause blood to accumulate within the thigh. This retention of body fluid within the thigh can cause upper leg swelling in affected patients, St. Mary's Health System warns. Upper leg swelling typically persists even if the patient elevates the affected leg during periods of rest.
Skin Warmth or Discoloration
A blood clot within the thigh can cause skin-related symptoms in patients. A patient can notice a discolored patch of skin across the affected leg, MedlinePlus explains. This area of discolored skin can appear flushed, red or purple, and may feel hot or warm to the touch. Patients can also experience a sensation of burning or warmth within the upper leg as a symptom of blood clot formation.
References
- University of California Los Angeles Health System: Blood Clot in the Legs---Signs and Symptoms
- St. Mary's Health System: Knee Surgery---Risks and Complications: Blood Clots
- MedlinePlus: Deep Venous Thrombosis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Deep Vein Thrombosis
- Vascular Disease Foundation: Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis
