Thrombosis: Symptoms, Types, Complications, and Treatment
Learn about thrombosis, its symptoms, causes, types, complications, and treatment options. Understand how to detect blood clots early and when to seek medical help.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. J T Hema Pratima MBBS
Last updated on 28th Aug, 2025
Thrombosis is a medical condition where a blood clot (thrombus) forms inside a blood vessel, blocking the normal flow of blood. While blood clotting is essential to stop bleeding when we get injured, clots forming inside veins or arteries without any injury can be dangerous. If left untreated, thrombosis can lead to serious health complications.
In this article, we’ll discuss the symptoms, types, complications, and treatment options for thrombosis in simple terms so that you can recognize the warning signs and take timely action.
What Are the Symptoms of Thrombosis?
The symptoms of thrombosis depend on where the clot forms in the body. Here are the most common signs:
1. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – Clot in Legs or Arms
- Swelling in one leg or arm (rarely both)
- Pain or tenderness, often starting in the calf
- Warmth and redness over the affected area
- Skin discoloration (bluish or reddish)
2. Pulmonary Embolism (PE) – Clot in Lungs
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Sharp chest pain (worsens with deep breaths)
- Rapid heartbeat
- Coughing up blood
- Dizziness or fainting
3. Arterial Thrombosis – Clot in Arteries (Heart or Brain)
- Heart Attack: Chest pain, sweating, nausea, arm/jaw pain
- Stroke: Sudden weakness/numbness (face, arm, leg), confusion, trouble speaking, vision problems
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Types of Thrombosis
There are two main types of thrombosis:
1. Venous Thrombosis (Clot in Veins)
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A clot forms in deep veins, usually in the legs.
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE): A DVT clot breaks free and travels to the lungs.
- Portal Vein Thrombosis: Affects the liver’s blood supply.
- Cerebral Venous Thrombosis: A rare clot in the brain’s veins.
2. Arterial Thrombosis (Clot in Arteries)
- Heart Attack: A clot blocks blood flow to the heart.
- Stroke: A clot blocks blood flow to the brain.
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Clots reduce blood flow to limbs.
What Causes Thrombosis?
Several factors increase the risk of developing a blood clot:
1. Reduced Blood Flow
- Long periods of immobility (bed rest, long flights, sitting for hours)
- Varicose veins
2. Blood Clotting Disorders
- Genetic conditions (like Factor V Leiden mutation)
- Cancer or chemotherapy
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, birth control pills, HRT)
3. Injury or Surgery
- Recent surgery (especially hip/knee replacements)
- Trauma to veins (from accidents or IV lines)
Consult a Hematologist for the best advice
4. Lifestyle & Health Conditions
- Obesity
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
Complications of Thrombosis
If not treated early, thrombosis can lead to life-threatening conditions:
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE): A DVT clot traveling to the lungs can be fatal.
- Post-Thrombotic Syndrome: Chronic leg pain, swelling, and ulcers after DVT.
- Stroke or Heart Attack: Arterial clots can cause permanent damage.
- Organ Damage: Clots blocking blood flow to organs (like kidneys) can lead to failure.
How Is Thrombosis Treated?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the clot. Common approaches include:
1. Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants)
- Examples: Warfarin, Heparin, Rivaroxaban, Apixaban
- Purpose: Prevent clots from growing and stop new ones from forming.
2. Clot Busters (Thrombolytics)
- Used in emergencies (like stroke or PE) to dissolve clots quickly.
3. Compression Stockings
- Helps reduce swelling and prevent post-thrombotic syndrome.
4. Surgery (In Severe Cases)
- Thrombectomy: Surgical removal of a clot.
- Stent Placement: Keeps arteries open.
5. Lifestyle Changes
- Stay active (avoid sitting for long hours).
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking.
- Stay hydrated.
- Wear compression stockings if at risk.
When to See a Doctor?
If you notice:
- Unexplained leg swelling or pain
- Sudden chest pain or breathing difficulty
- Signs of stroke (facial drooping, slurred speech)
Don’t wait! Early treatment can save lives.
If you have concerns about thrombosis or need a consultation, you can book an appointment with a specialist on Apollo 24|7 for expert advice and care.
Final Thoughts
Thrombosis is a serious but manageable condition if detected early. Knowing the symptoms and risk factors can help you take preventive steps. If you or a loved one is at risk, consult a doctor for personalized guidance.
Would you like to schedule a check-up or blood test? Visit Apollo 24|7 for quick and reliable healthcare services.
Consult a Hematologist for the best advice
Consult a Hematologist for the best advice
Dr. Sushith C
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr Sumanth R
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Thorana Prakash M
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Ramalinga Reddy
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Purvi Kadakia Kutty
Paediatric Haematologist
10 Years • MD Paediatrics FNB Pediatric Haem. & Onco.
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
Consult a Hematologist for the best advice
Dr. Sushith C
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr Sumanth R
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Thorana Prakash M
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Ramalinga Reddy
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Purvi Kadakia Kutty
Paediatric Haematologist
10 Years • MD Paediatrics FNB Pediatric Haem. & Onco.
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
