What are the signs and symptoms of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

The signs and symptoms of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) typically include swelling, pain, and redness in the affected leg. This condition usually occurs in one leg, and the swelling is often accompanied by warmth and tenderness around the area where the blood clot is formed. The pain can sometimes be described as cramping or soreness, particularly in the calf or thigh. The redness is due to inflammation and increased blood flow in response to the clot. These classic symptoms are critical for early detection and treatment, as DVT can lead to serious complications, such as a pulmonary embolism if the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs.

The other options describe symptoms associated with different medical conditions. Nausea and vomiting are more generalized symptoms and do not specifically indicate DVT. Chest pain and shortness of breath could indicate a pulmonary embolism, which is often a complication of DVT, but these symptoms do not directly reflect DVT itself. Pallor and numbness in the fingers are related to vascular or neurological issues, again not indicative of DVT. Understanding these distinctions is vital for effective patient assessment and intervention.