A blood clot in a leg vein can sit like a plug or break off and travel. Early signs are easy to brush off as a muscle pull, so knowing the pattern matters.
Calf pain is the first red flag. It feels like a deep cramp or tight muscle that doesn’t ease with stretching or massage.
Swelling shows up next. The ankle or whole lower leg puffs, often only on one side, so socks leave a tight groove.
Warmth and redness appear. The skin over the vein feels hot and looks pink or purplish, like a localized sunburn.
Heaviness and fatigue follow. The leg feels tired and wooden, even after a short walk.
Superficial veins may pop out. Blue cords bulge as the deeper vein is blocked.
Late alarms include sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood—clues the clot has traveled to the lung.
| Symptom | What You Feel | Quick Check |
|---|---|---|
| Pain | Deep cramp, tight | Stretch test |
| Swell | One-side puffy | Sock-groove test |
| Warm | Hot, red patch | Skin temp test |
| Heavy | Wooden leg | Walk test |
| Veins | Blue cords pop | Look test |
| Late | Chest pain, breath | Call 911 |