What symptom is often associated with DVT after a long flight?

Unilateral lower limb pain or swelling is a key symptom associated with deep vein thrombosis (DVT), particularly following long flights. During extended periods of immobility, such as prolonged sitting on an airplane, blood flow in the veins may slow down, increasing the risk for clot formation in the deep veins of the legs. A DVT often presents with localized symptoms, such as pain or swelling that occurs in one leg, which can be exacerbated by movement or when the leg is lowered. This distinct presentation is because the clot typically forms in one limb rather than both, leading to the unilateral nature of the symptoms.

In contrast, symptoms like chest pain are more associated with complications from DVT, such as a pulmonary embolism, where a clot travels to the lungs. Fever and fatigue are nonspecific symptoms that can arise from various conditions but are not characteristic of DVT itself. Understanding these specific symptoms helps in prompt identification and management of DVT, especially for those at higher risk due to factors like long travel durations.