Blood clots Infosheet

This Infosheet explains what blood clots are and why myeloma patients are at higher risk of them. It also covers what the symptoms of a blood clot are, how they can be prevented and treated, and tips for self-management.

This Infosheet covers key questions and topics about blood clots including:

• What a blood clot is
• The causes of blood clots in a vein
• The symptoms of a blood clot in a vein or lungs
• Why the risk of a blood clot is increased in myeloma
• How blood clots are prevented and treated
• Side effects of anticoagulants
• Tips for self-management  

Key points you can read about in this Infosheet include:

• Blood clots can happen in the veins of the legs or arms, or in the lungs, and it is important to know the symptoms so you can report them straight away
• The most common symptoms of a blood clot include throbbing or cramping pain in your leg or arm, swelling and heaviness in your leg or arm, and redness and/or warmth on the skin around the painful area
• Symptoms of a blood clot in the lungs include sudden breathlessness or difficulty breathing, pain in your chest or upper back, coughing up blood and fast heartbeat. A blood clot in the lungs is a medical emergency, and you must dial 999
• The risk of blood clots increases with some myeloma treatment combinations. You may be given treatments called anticoagulants to prevent blood clots
• Taking steps, such as avoiding being too inactive, keeping to a healthy weight and stopping smoking can reduce your risk of blood clots

Blood clots Infosheet

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