Bloodclots, more commonly spelled as two words -- blood clots -- form when blood cells stick together inside a vein or artery. Blood clots can form anywhere in the body, but are most prominent in the legs, according to MayoClinic.com. A clot inside a deep vein, called a deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, may break free and travel to the heart or lungs, which can be life-threatening. A person with blood clot symptoms should seek medical evaluation to prevent complications.
Leg Pain
A person with a blood clot in the leg may experience pain in the affected leg. Pain may be present in the thigh, behind the knee or in the calf. The affected leg may also feel tender to the touch. FamilyDoctor.org states that leg pain from a blood clot may only be felt upon standing or walking.
Chest Pain
Blood clots may form in the pulmonary artery, the artery that supplies blood to the lungs, or may travel to the lungs from another area of the body. MayoClinic.com states that chest pain will develop from a pulmonary blood clot, and may mimic a heart attack. A person may experience sudden chest pain that gets worse with coughing, deep breathing, bending over or eating. Exertion will make chest pain worse and rest will not make chest pain better.
Trouble Breathing
A person with a blood clot in the lungs may develop shortness of breath. Trouble breathing often begins suddenly. Taking a deep breath may be difficult; a person may fill as if she can't completely fill her lungs. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute states that a person with a pulmonary blood clot may also begin coughing up blood.
Swelling
The CDC states that some people experience swelling in the body part affected by a blood clot. An affected extremity such as an arm or leg may appear swollen compared to the unaffected limb. Skin over the affected area may also appear red or irritated, and may feel warm to the touch.
Additional Symptoms
A blood clot may cause additional symptoms depending on its location and severity. A person may also experience a rapid heartbeat, lightheadedness, or feelings of anxiety or dread. Reduced or blocked circulation throughout the body from a blood clot may result in fainting or unconsciousness, as well.
