Diane, a keen hockey player, shares her story of a DVT

An East Lancashire sportswoman is urging people to look out for the symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis after suffering a life-changing episode of the condition.

It could have been avoided or treated earlier if I had known what to look out for

Ms Calvert was shocked as she had been warned about DVT.

She said: “Whilst mine was a very unusual case because of the seriousness of it, it could have been avoided or treated earlier if I had known what to look out for.

“As a result I have had to change my job as I used to be on my feet all day. I can no longer play hockey which I am devastated about.”

These symptoms of a blood clot may feel similar to a pulled muscle and can include: swelling, usually in one leg or arm; leg pain or tenderness; reddish / blue skin discolouration; and having a leg or arm which is warm to touch.

I can no longer play hockey which I am devastated about

Ms Calvert has been supported by charity Thrombosis UK and features its ‘Through the Lens’ campaign to raise awareness of the condition

Jo Jerrome, its chief executive, said: “Although many are unaware, a significant risk factor for thrombosis is admission to hospital, and this risk remains for up to 90 days after discharge.

“It is vital that everyone admitted to hospital is given written information about thrombosis, has opportunity to discuss this and is aware of how to help to reduce their risk, and of the possible symptoms. Anyone can be at risk of thrombosis, it is so important for us all to ‘Think Thrombosis’ – awareness really does save lives.”