Venous thrombosis is another term for blood clots in the leg. The clots may be located in superficial veins close to the skin's surface or deep within the tissue. It can be caused by venous damage, poor circulation or abnormally thick blood. Those who have remained in one position for long periods of time, such as travelers, those who are bedridden, or those having surgery, are prone to venous thrombosis.
Swelling
When a blood clot is located in the vein, the affected limb and even other extremities may swell. Because of the clot, blood is not able to move as freely through the vein, causing a build up of blood to collect; this results in the swelling that is visualized in affected individuals. Depending on where the clot is located in the body and how deep it is, swelling can occur in one or both lower extremities. In rare occasions, the upper extremities can be affected as well.
Pain and Skin Warmth
Pain is another symptom that can be associated with blood clots in the leg. Pain generally increases when the affected individual is sitting or standing. Depending on the location of the clot, there may be increased pain when flexing the foot upward , referred to Homans sign. The limb often is tender when touched as well. Because of localized blockage and pooling of blood, this can not only cause inflammation and pain, it can also cause skin warmth. The skin will feel warm to the touch over the affected limb.
Redness
When the clot is located in a vein close to the surface of the skin, a localized, large reddened nodule can be see and felt. In some instances the entire vein may be visualized, especially when located close to the surface of the skin. For clots located deep within the leg, there is not always a visual sign of the clot since the location of the affliction is buried deep in the leg.
Other Considerations
Not all individuals with blood clotting in the legs will have symptoms. Whether or not there are noticeable symptoms will depend directly on the location of the blood clot, the size, and the severity of the condition.
