Blood Clot Awareness Month: Understanding Blood Clots 

 By Rohit Masih, MD, and Hiten Patel, MD

Venous thromboembolism refers to blood clots that form in the veins. It includes two related conditions: deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. A deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. A pulmonary embolism occurs when part of that clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow. Venous thromboembolism is considered serious because pulmonary embolism can be life‑threatening, if not recognized and treated quickly. 

How common is venous thromboembolism? 

In the United States, it is estimated that up to 900,000 people develop venous thromboembolism each year, and many deaths are related to complications of pulmonary embolism. It is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in hospitals. 

What are the warning signs of deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism? 

Common symptoms include swelling in one leg, leg pain or tenderness, warmth in the affected area, and red or discolored skin. Sudden leg swelling or pain should prompt medical evaluation. Symptoms of pulmonary embolism may include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heart rate, lightheadedness or fainting, and coughing (sometimes with blood). Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain should be treated as a medical emergency. 

Who is most at risk for developing blood clots? 

Risk factors include surgery or hospitalization, cancer, pregnancy or the postpartum period, long travel or immobility, hormonal therapy, smoking, obesity, prior history of blood clots or anyone with a condition that predisposes them to hypercoagulability, a state where the blood has a higher propensity to clot. 

What steps can people take to reduce the risk of blood clots? 

Stay active, move frequently during long travel, stay hydrated, maintain a healthy weight, use compression stockings when recommended, and follow medical advice regarding preventive blood thinners in high‑risk situations. 

How are blood clots diagnosed? 

Doctors use symptoms, examination, and imaging tests such as ultrasound for deep vein thrombosis and CT for pulmonary embolism. Blood tests and an electrocardiogram may also help aid in the diagnosis. 

How are deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism treated? 

The main treatment is anticoagulation therapy, commonly known as blood thinners. Treatment typically lasts at least three months, though the duration depends on the underlying cause and patient risk factors. 

Why is awareness of venous thromboembolism important? 

Awareness saves lives. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking prompt medical care can prevent serious complications and death. Some important things to remember are that leg swelling is not always a blood clot, but sudden one‑sided swelling should be evaluated; regular exercise helps reduce clot risk; some blood clots are hereditary; and blood clots can recur. Blood clots are common but often preventable and recognizing symptoms early can save lives.

Rohit Masih, MD, is a cardiology fellow with UNC Health Southeastern. Hiten Patel, MD is an interventional cardiologist and endovascular specialist as well as the program director for UNC Health Southeastern’s Cardiovascular Diseases Fellowship Program. In addition to offering services you’d expect from a community healthcare system, UNC Health Southeastern provides a number of specialized services that are unique to our system and not available anywhere else in the region. To schedule an appointment, call our referral line at 984-974-CARE. To learn more, visit UNCHealthSE.org. To submit questions for consideration for a Frequently Asked Questions article, email unchsoutheasterninfo@unchealth.unc.edu.