Key points. Thrombosis occurs when blood clots block veins or arteries. Symptoms include pain and swelling in one leg, chest pain, or numbness on one side of the body. Complications of thrombosis can be life-threatening, such as a stroke or heart attack.
What triggers thrombosis?
There are three categories of causes of thrombosis: damage to the blood vessel (catheter or surgery), slowed blood flow (immobility), and/or thrombophilia (if the blood itself is more likely to clot). Causes of thrombosis depend on whether your child has inherited or acquired thrombosis.
What are signs of thrombosis?
DVT (deep vein thrombosis)
- throbbing or cramping pain in 1 leg (rarely both legs), usually in the calf or thigh.
- swelling in 1 leg (rarely both legs)
- warm skin around the painful area.
- red or darkened skin around the painful area.
- swollen veins that are hard or sore when you touch them.
