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

• A. Fever and chills
• B. Swelling, pain, tenderness, increased warmth, and discoloration of the leg
• C. Vomiting and diarrhea
• D. Chest pain and shortness of breath

Answer: (B)

The signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) primarily involve the affected leg, and they typically manifest as swelling, pain, tenderness, increased warmth, and discoloration. These clinical presentations occur due to the obstruction of blood flow in the deep veins, usually in the lower extremities. The swelling arises because fluid builds up in the tissues, and the pain and tenderness are results of inflammation and stretching of the surrounding structures due to the accumulation of blood.

Increased warmth in the affected area is often noted because of increased blood flow and inflammatory responses. Discoloration may occur as blood pools in the veins, leading to a darkening of the skin around the thrombus. Recognizing these key signs and symptoms is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment, as DVT can lead to serious complications such as pulmonary embolism if not addressed promptly.

In contrast, other options like fever and chills typically indicate an infection rather than a thrombotic event. Vomiting and diarrhea are gastrointestinal symptoms unrelated to DVT. Additionally, chest pain and shortness of breath are more indicative of a pulmonary embolism, which can occur when a DVT dislodges and travels to the lungs, but are not direct signs of DVT itself.