A blood clot is the formation of a solid mass within a vein, which then blocks normal blood flow. According to the National Institutes of Health, the most common place for a person to develop a blood clot is in the leg. This condition, referred to as deep venous thrombosis, or DVT, can be potentially life threatening. If the blood clot breaks away from the leg and travels to the lungs or brain, serious damage or even death can occur. Signs of a blood clot in the legs are diagnosed through a physical exam and imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI.
Pain
The leg, especially the calf area, may hurt once a blood clot has formed. The affected leg may feel tender to the touch, or the person may experience an achy feeling throughout the leg.
Warmth
A feeling of warmth in the leg may be a sign of a blood clot. The affected leg may feel significantly warmer than the other limbs.
Discoloration of Skin
People who have a blood clot in the leg may notice that the skin in the surrounding area is redder than usual. The University of Michigan Department of Surgery states that this symptom occurs mostly in severe cases of DVT.
Swelling
Deep venous thrombosis in the leg may be characterized by swelling, a medical condition called edema.
Fever
Some people who have blood clots may develop a fever, or the area around the clot may feel hot.
