What is Arm DVT?
An arm DVT is a blood clot in one of the deep veins of the arm, typically the axillary, subclavian, or brachial vein. While less common than leg DVT, arm DVT can cause significant symptoms and carries a risk of pulmonary embolism.
Common symptoms
- Swelling of the arm, hand, or fingers
- Pain or achiness in the arm, shoulder, or neck
- A sensation of heaviness or tightness in the arm
- Bluish or reddish skin discoloration
- Prominent veins visible on the arm or chest
🚨 Seek emergency care immediately if you have:
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
- Rapidly increasing arm swelling
- Numbness or loss of function in the arm or hand
- Fever greater than 38.5°C (101.3°F)
Call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department.
Treatment
Treatment duration is typically 3–6 months, depending on the underlying cause. Catheter-associated DVTs are usually treated for the duration of catheter use plus at least 3 months.
Trusted resources
Thrombosis Canada
thrombosiscanada.ca →Clot Connect
clotconnect.org →Contact your clinic
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice from your healthcare team.