Knowing the signs and symptoms of blood clots could save your life

On this World Thrombosis Day (Tuesday, 13 October) the HSE is reminding people that blood clots can happen to anyone, at any time. Knowing your risk, recognising the signs and symptoms of a blood clot in your leg or lungs, taking immediate action if they occur, could save your life.

Thrombosis is a dangerous condition where a blood clot blocks your blood vessels. This can stop the blood flowing properly. This can be life-threatening.

When a blood clot forms deep inside a vein -most commonly in your leg or pelvis - it is called a DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis). The real danger happens if this clot breaks loose and travels through your bloodstream to your lungs, creating a life-threatening blockage called a PE (Pulmonary Embolism). Because these two conditions are so closely related, medical professionals group them together under one name: Venous Thromboembolism or VTE.

Your risk may be higher during certain times in your life or because of things like:

• recent surgery (especially orthopaedic or cancer related)
• hospitalisation
• prolonged immobility
• cancer
• pregnancy
• the six-week period after giving birth
• certain oestrogen medications
• previous blood clots
• a family history of venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Dr Denis O’Keeffe, HSE Clinical Lead, National Clinical Programme for Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) and a Consultant Haematologist in University Hospital Limerick said: ‘‘We’re encouraging people to become aware of the signs and symptoms of a blood clot, understand your risk and seek medical attention without delay if you ever suspect you have a blood clot.

‘‘Over 60% of all blood clots happen during or in the 90 days after a hospital stay. Additional times of increased risk are in people with cancer, women who are pregnant or in the six weeks after giving birth, and those who have their lower leg immobilised, e.g. in a cast. However, clots can happen suddenly in any person.  Knowing your risk, recognising the signs and symptoms of a blood clot in your leg or lungs and taking immediate action if they occur, could save your life.”

“This year’s International World Thrombosis Day is focusing on women’s health and thrombosis awareness. Blood clot risk can change throughout a woman’s lifespan, including through pregnancy, postpartum, menopause and beyond.

‘‘We are working to support efforts to improve awareness among healthcare staff and women so that risks are recognised early and evidence-based preventative measures are implemented. Our key message is understanding your personal risk factors and seeking medical advice promptly can help prevent serious outcomes.’’

Blood clots can affect anyone, regardless of age or overall health status Venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), is a serious but often preventable condition. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications and save lives.

Signs and symptoms of DVT include:

• Swelling in one leg or arm
• Pain or tenderness, often in the calf
• Warmth, redness or discolouration of the skin

Signs and symptoms of a PE include:

• Sudden unexplained shortness of breath
• Chest pain, especially when breathing deeply
• Rapid heartbeat
• Coughing up blood
• Feeling faint or collapsing

A suspected pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency and requires urgent medical attention.

Information on blood clots, VTE, DVT and PE