Many patients in Bangalore come to the clinic worried about leg pain or swelling.
Some notice one leg feels different from the other.
Others search online late at night and see the words “blood clot,” which increases anxiety.
So let’s explain this clearly and calmly.
Deep Vein Thrombosis, commonly called DVT, is serious when missed.
At the same time, not all leg pain or swelling is DVT.
Knowing the early warning signs helps patients act at the right time-without panic.
What Is DVT?
DVT means a blood clot forming inside a deep vein, most often in the leg.
When a clot forms:
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Blood flow through the vein reduces
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Pressure builds up in the leg
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Swelling and pain can develop
The reason doctors take DVT seriously is because a clot can sometimes move from the leg to the lungs. Early detection prevents this risk.
Early Warning Signs of DVT You Should Know
DVT usually starts quietly. The early signs are often subtle and easy to miss.
1. Swelling in One Leg
One of the most common early signs is swelling in one leg, usually around the calf or thigh.
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The swelling may increase by evening
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Shoes or footwear may feel tight on one side
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The other leg looks normal
One-sided swelling is more concerning than swelling in both legs.
2. Persistent Leg Pain or Tightness
DVT pain is usually:
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Deep and constant
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Felt in the calf or thigh
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Not settling with simple rest
Patients often describe it as a tight or heavy feeling rather than sharp pain.
3. Warmth Over One Area
The affected part of the leg may feel warmer than the surrounding skin.
This happens due to inflammation caused by the clot.
4. Redness or Skin Colour Change
Some patients notice:
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Redness
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Darkening
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A slight colour difference compared to the other leg
This change may be mild initially but should not be ignored if it persists.
5. Pain That Worsens While Standing or Walking
Pain due to DVT often:
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Increases while standing
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Feels worse during walking
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Improves only partially with rest
This pattern is different from simple muscle pain.
Symptoms Patients Often Ignore
In daily practice, many patients delay evaluation because symptoms feel “not serious.”
Commonly ignored signs include:
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Mild swelling blamed on long work hours
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Tightness assumed to be muscle strain
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Pain thought to be travel-related
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Temporary relief after rest leading to delay
Ignoring these signs can delay diagnosis.
When DVT Is Less Likely
It is equally important to reduce unnecessary fear.
DVT is less likely when:
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Pain is present in both legs equally
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Pain appears after exercise and settles fully
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Pain improves completely with massage
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There is no swelling or skin colour change
Symptoms alone are not a diagnosis. Medical evaluation gives clarity.
Who Is at Higher Risk of DVT?
Some people have a higher chance of developing DVT, including those who:
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Recently had surgery or were hospitalised
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Had long travel or prolonged bed rest
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Have a past history of blood clots
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Have certain medical conditions
Long sitting hours and travel, common in Bangalore, can add to risk in some individuals.
When Should You Seek Medical Evaluation?
You should get evaluated if you notice:
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Sudden swelling in one leg
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Pain with redness or warmth
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Symptoms worsening over a few days
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A past history of blood clots
Early evaluation is safer and simpler than delayed treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is leg pain always a sign of DVT?
No. Most leg pain is due to muscles or joints, not DVT.
2. Can DVT start suddenly?
Yes. Symptoms can appear over hours or days.
3. Can DVT pain come and go?
Pain may fluctuate, but swelling usually persists.
4. Is DVT common in young people?
It is less common, but it can occur in young adults with risk factors.
5. Can DVT be life-threatening if ignored?
Yes. Untreated DVT can lead to serious complications.
My Perspective
As a vascular specialist in Bangalore, I often reassures patients:
Early awareness prevents complications.
Panic is not helpful, but ignoring symptoms is risky.
Clear understanding helps patients take the right step at the right time.