Reports that Houston native and NFL quarterback Jalen Hurts has been diagnosed with blood clots have raised questions about what these conditions are, who is at risk and when symptoms require medical attention. Houston Methodist vascular surgeons Dr. Paul Haddad, Dr. Linda Le and Dr. Eric Peden answer common questions about what people of all ages should know about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE) and blood clots.

 

Q: What are DVT and PE, and how are they related?

 

Dr. Haddad: DVT, or deep vein thrombosis, occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs. A pulmonary embolism, or PE, happens when part of a clot breaks away and travels to the lungs. Reports indicate Hurts was initially diagnosed with superficial vein thrombosis (SVT), which in some cases can progress to a DVT. If a DVT progresses and travels to the lungs, it can become a PE, which is a more serious condition. These conditions are often treated with anticoagulant medications, commonly known as blood thinners.

 

Q: Can blood clots happen to anyone, or are certain people at greater risk?

 

Dr. Peden: Anyone can develop a blood clot, but the risk increases after surgery, trauma, injury or periods of prolonged immobility. People with cancer and certain other medical conditions also face higher risks. Blood clots are relatively common, so it's important to know the warning signs and seek medical attention when something doesn't seem right.

 

Q: Could an injury have played a role in Hurts' diagnosis?

 

Dr. Le: Injury and trauma are well-established risk factors for blood clots. Following an injury, people may experience inflammation, reduced mobility or require surgery, all of which can increase clotting risk. While every patient's situation is unique, physicians consider these factors when determining what may have contributed to a clot.

 

Q: What are the warning signs of a DVT?

 

Dr. Haddad: One of the most important signs is swelling in one leg that is significantly greater than the other. That is not normal and should be evaluated promptly. An ultrasound is often used to determine whether a clot is present. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications.

 

Q: What symptoms could indicate a pulmonary embolism?

 

Dr. Peden: Shortness of breath is one of the key warning signs. While many respiratory illnesses can cause mild breathing symptoms, severe or unexpected shortness of breath that limits normal activities should never be ignored. It may signal a serious heart or lung problem, including a pulmonary embolism, and warrants immediate medical evaluation.

 

Q: What should people take away from Hurts' experience?

 

Dr. Le: Many people wonder whether something like this could happen to them. The most important message is awareness. Understanding the signs and symptoms of blood clots and seeking prompt medical attention when they occur can make a significant difference. While blood clots can be serious, they are treatable, especially when recognized early.

 

You can see more of their discussion here.

 

You can also learn more about DVT from Houston Methodist’s “On Health Blog”.

 

About the experts:

 

Dr. Paul Haddad is a vascular surgeon at Houston Methodist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of complex arterial and venous diseases, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

 

Dr. Linda Le is a vascular surgeon at Houston Methodist whose expertise includes advanced treatments for venous disease, blood clots and vascular conditions affecting circulation.

 

Dr. Eric Peden is a vascular surgeon at Houston Methodist specializing in venous and arterial disorders, with extensive experience treating patients with deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and other vascular conditions.