DVT stands for deep vein thrombosis, which is a medical condition where a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. DVT can cause leg pain or swelling, and it can be serious because blood clots in the veins can break loose and travel through the bloodstream, causing a blockage in the lungs known as pulmonary embolism (PE) . When DVT and PE occur together, its called venous thromboembolism (VTE) . DVT can happen to anyone and can cause serious illness, disability, and in some cases, death. Some factors that increase the risk of DVT include inactivity, surgery, hospitalization, pregnancy, certain chronic medical illnesses, heart disease, lung disease, cancer and its treatment, inflammatory bowel disease, previous DVT or PE, family history of DVT or PE, age, obesity, and having a catheter located in a central vein. Symptoms of DVT can include leg swelling, leg pain, cramping or soreness that often starts in the calf, and red or discolored skin on the leg. If you suspect you have DVT, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.