How to Diagnose Bloodclots

A blood clot occurs when blood coagulates and becomes a plug in your vein, blocking your blood flow. If these blood clots go untreated, they can break off and cause serious health problems such as strokes and heart attacks. It is important to check regularly for blood clots, and if you find evidence of a blood clot to immediately see your doctor about treatment.

Instructions

• 1

  Take note if one of your legs shows any signs of swelling, redness, warmth or feverishness, and any serious discomfort or pain. These are symptoms of a condition called deep venous thrombosis.

• 2

  Visit your doctor if you have these symptoms and have him run a blood D-dimer test. D-dimer is a protein fragment that is left in the blood as a result of a blood clot. If your blood is tested for D-dimer and the test comes back positive for the protein fragment, then it is almost a guarantee you have a blood clot.

• 3

  Undergo an ultrasonography of your pelvic region, your thighs and then your legs. This test will use sound waves to check for any blocked arteries and veins.

• 4

  Ask your doctor to perform an MRI on you. This will allow doctors to directly see the veins and will clearly display any blockages. You may also want to have your doctor do an X-ray on the area believed to have the clot.