When blood flow slows, blood clots can form on irregular areas along the blood vessel walls. The condition is most commonly seen in adults over age 60. Also at risk of developing DVT are pregnant women, young people with badly broken bones in their legs, and people who are immobile. Most people who have DVT do not know it. Only about 4 out of 100 people will have symptoms.
Symptoms can include pain and swelling in the leg.
Your doctor will take your history and perform a physical exam. Occasionally, medication is used to dissolve the clot. In rare circumstances, clots may be surgically removed. Sometimes physicians place filters in your blood vessels to keep the clots from reaching the lung. Bedrest may be recommended until the symptoms are relieved.