Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condition that causes blood clots to form in your principal veins. The clots usually develop in one of your legs and are dangerous. Sometimes, they may detach themselves and travel to other parts of your body, such as the lungs, and become fatal. Let us talk about risk factors and prevention of DVT to mitigate your risk.

Risk factors

1. Medical history of DVT
If you have had DVT in the past, it can be one of your biggest risk factors. Once a deep vein has been inflicted by DVT, it never fully recovers from it with possibility of more clots in the future. Moreover, it can cause severe damage inside the vein that obstructs the blood flow and make you susceptible to another DVT within a matter of 10 years.

2. Recent hip, knee, or prostate surgery
If you have recently undergone any of these surgeries, your risk of getting DVT during the post-operative period increases significantly. Constant bed rest can make your blood flow sluggish, leading to blood clots due to tissue and fat waste that may enter your bloodstream.

3. Age
Other than your medical history, a patient’s age is also a risk factor in causing DVT. A person over the age of 60 years is considered high risk for DVT.

4. Trauma or injury
The trauma or injury increases your risk of DVT. Any trauma, be it from an accident or surgery, triggers the body’s blood clotting system. Therefore, DVT may develop within a matter of weeks to hours after the injury. Long bone fracture is one of the most common causes of DVT.

5. Obesity
People with high body mass index (BMI), especially over 30, are at least 2-3 times more susceptible to DVT.

Prevention tips

1. Exercise regularly
It is necessary to exercise every day to avoid the risk of DVT. You can go for long walks, swimming, bicycling, etc. Exercise will also help you maintain your body weight within a healthy range.

2. Quit smoking
Smoking can cause serious damage to your body and amplify your risk of DVT. You can take help from nicotine patches, gums, prescription medications, etc., to kick the habit successfully.

3. Check your blood pressure
You must check your blood pressure at least once every year or more often if directed by your physician. You should also take your blood pressure medication religiously. Additionally, you must exercise, eat healthy, and quit smoking to keep your blood pressure in check.

4. Get routine health check-ups
Don’t skip your health check-ups, and be sure to keep your doctor informed regarding any blood clotting you or your close family member experiences. Also, tell them if you have undergone hormone replacement therapy or are on birth control pills.

Educating yourself about risk factors and the prevention of DVT is the first step in avoiding the condition.