Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is the formation of a blood clot within a deep vein in the body. Clots develop when blood thickens and clumps together. Most often, DVT occurs in the lower leg or thigh but can also happen elsewhere.
The danger arises when a clot breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream. This loose clot, known as an embolus, can reach the lungs and obstruct blood flow, resulting in a condition called pulmonary embolism (PE). PE is highly serious, potentially damaging the lungs and other organs, and even leading to death.
Clots in the thigh pose a higher risk of causing PE compared to those in the lower leg or other areas. While blood clots can also form in superficial veins closer to the skin, they typically don’t dislodge and cause PE.