Individuals who are obese, smoke cigarettes, pregnant or recently had surgery face a higher risk for developing a blood clot in the thigh or calf. The formation of a blood clot in a vein that is situated deep within the legs is known as deep vein thrombosis. In most individuals who develop deep vein thrombosis, the symptoms do not manifest. Nevertheless, those who experience the symptoms of a blood clot in the thigh must consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Edema
When thick blood clots adhere to the interior of a deep vein in the thigh, it can disrupt the flow of blood to the lower leg. As a result, the blood that accumulates above the location of the blood clot can cause severe swelling of the upper thigh. This symptom of a blood clot in the thigh is known as edema. Individuals who develop this symptom will notice that the thigh appears abnormally enlarged or puffy and wearing of pants or shorts results to a tight fit around the affected thigh.
Pain or tenderness in the leg
Individuals who have a blood clot that develops in the thigh can suffer feelings of minor to harsh leg pain as an indication of deep vein thrombosis. The feeling of pain can worsen once the individual puts weight on the affected leg. When there is a blood clot in the thigh, it can also cause tenderness particularly when the individual touches or presses the upper leg. Always bear in mind that pain and tenderness usually persist and progressively worsen if the blood clot is not treated as soon as possible.
Engorged veins
The accumulation of blood in the thigh can lead to the enlargement or swelling of the vein that contains the blood clot. The individual will also notice that a vein in the thigh appears to protrude from the skin due to the inflammation triggered by the blood clot.
Warmth and discoloration of the skin
The skin that covers the site of the blood clot in the thigh can become unusually red in color due to the accumulation of blood under the skin. In some cases, the individual will also develop sensations of warmth on the affected leg or notice that the discolored skin feel warms to the touch. If you want to learn more about this condition, click here.
Chest pain and breathing difficulties
Unlike with the blood clots that develop in the inferior leg or other parts of the body, the blood clots in the thigh are more likely to detach from the vein and flow into the lungs. A blood clot that lands in the lungs is a life-threatening emergency called as pulmonary embolism. Those who develop this condition due to the blood clot in the thigh can suffer from chest pain or discomfort as well as shortness of breath. The moment these symptoms of blood clot manifest, the individual must seek immediate medical care.