Blood Clot in Leg; Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

A blood clot in the leg is a common condition with more than 200,000 US cases per year. A blood clot in the leg is also also referred to as deep venous thrombosis or DVT. This condition is perhaps one of the most common that affects blood vessels in adults, perhaps only second to atherosclerosis of the arteries.

How Does a Blood Clot Form?

Our blood is a liquid and remains so as long as it is in the body. It has a group of proteins called coagulation factors that remain inactive as long as the blood vessels are healthy, and the blood keeps flowing in the body.

They are counteracted by another group of proteins called anticoagulants. Blood clotting is essential to repair injured blood vessels, and without it, a small injury in any blood vessel may cause us to bleed to death.

This delicate balance of coagulation and anticoagulation can be disturbed in many disorders, some of them are genetic and others are acquired throughout life. It can result from changes in the flow of blood in a blood vessel, from changes in the coagulation factors themselves or the viscosity of blood.  Next lets look at the causes of blood clots in the legs..

Written by Greg M. Wilcox

With a background in medical research, I'm dedicated to unraveling the complexities of health and nutrition in a way that's easy to understand and implement. From debunking myths to sharing science-backed insights, my goal is to guide you on a journey towards optimal well-being.