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Deep venous thrombosis or DVT is a condition that is caused due to a blood clot being embedded in any one of the veins that run through the pelvis, thighs or lower legs. The clot tends to block the circulation of blood through these veins. This could be dangerous as these veins are responsible for carrying blood from the lower extremities to the heart. Such kind of a blockage can lead to swelling, warmth and pain in the leg that is affected. Such blood clots can cause an irritation or inflammation referred to as thrombophlebitis. At times severe complications may develop if such a clot happens to embolize or break loose. This loose clot then moves through one's bloodstream, leading to a blockage of other blood vessels in the lung. When this condition, known as pulmonary embolism is reached, the individual may face a severe difficulty while breathing and depending on the extent of the blockage this can also lead to death.
Approximately two million people develop deep vein thrombosis per year, in the United States. A blood clot in the concerned leg can be caused due to several reasons such as: obesity, heart failure, cancer, fractures, surgery and so on. When a blood clot hinders or obstructs the flow of blood to the affected leg, a large number of symptoms can occur, namely: swelling in the leg or foot, redness, cramps in the affected leg particularly at night, the area is warm to touch, gradual and slow onset of pain, skin discoloration. However, nearly thirty to fifty percent of people with this condition do not experience any kind of symptoms.
Since you specified that the swelling in your foot is on account of a clot in the pelvic area, consulting a physician would be highly recommended. Although the condition could resolve on its own, one does not want to run the risk of developing pulmonary embolism, on account of the clot reaching the lungs. To seek temporary comfort you could try out the following; keep the concerned limb raised or elevated. Avoid sitting for too long. If you are overweight then now would be a good time to shed a few pounds. You could also apply a warm compress to the area. This will help in soothing the area and will provide temporary relief. As an alternative soak your feet in a tub of warm water for about half an hour. This will also help in gaining relief.
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