Deep Vein Thrombosis Prevention

DVT Information

Deep Vein Thrombosis Prevention: Know the Risk Factors

It is important to know if you are at risk for deep vein thrombosis so that you can take steps to lower your risk.

Deep vein thrombosis risk factors include:

Inherited conditions that cause increased risk for blood clotting

Restricted or slow blood flow in a deep vein, due to injury, surgery, or having to stay in bed for a long time

Cancer and its treatment

Medical conditions such as varicose veins

Sitting for a long period of time, such as on long trips in a car or on an airplane (see DVT and Travel for more information)

Pregnancy and the six-week period after delivery

Being over age 60 (although DVT can occur at any age)

Being overweight or obese

Taking birth control or hormone replacement pills

Having a medical condition that requires a central venous catheter (a tube placed in a vein to allow easy access to your bloodstream for medical treatment).

Other Suggestions for Deep Vein Thrombosis Prevention

Preventing deep vein thrombosis will also depend on whether you have had a clot before or if you are at risk for developing a deep vein clot but have never had one.

If you have had a deep vein clot, you will need to prevent further clots from developing by:

Taking your medications to prevent or treat blood clots as prescribed by your doctor
Following up with your doctor for medication changes and blood work.

If you have never had a deep vein clot, but you are in a situation that may increase your risk, be sure to:

Exercise your lower leg muscles if you will be sitting still for long periods of time
Get out of bed and move around as soon as you are able to after having surgery or being ill
Take DVT medications to prevent clots after some types of surgery as directed by your doctor
Follow up with your doctor.