Deep vein thrombosis, also known as DVT, is an ailment in which one develops blood clots in the major veins of the body. Although it can affect anyone, there are certain people who are at a greater risk of getting DVT. If ignored, the blood clots can travel to one’s lungs and become life-threatening. This article talks about some risk factors of DVT and tips for its prevention.

Risk factors for DVT
Common risk factors for DVT include:

1. Age
Although DVT can occur at any age, being above 60 years greatly increases its likelihood.

2. Sitting in one place for extended periods
Sitting in one place for long hours does not let your calf muscles contract. Consequently, the absence of proper blood circulation increases the chances of DVT.

3. Surgery or deep injuries
Many times, an injury to your veins or surgery in any body part can increase the risk of blood clots.

4. Pregnancy
Often, pregnancy increases the pressure in the veins that run through your legs and pelvis. The risk of blood clotting during pregnancy can continue for up to six weeks after the baby is born.

5. Obesity
This is one of the chief risk factors of DVT. Prevention of the condition essentially entails maintaining a healthy body weight so as to not put extra pressure in the veins, leading to clotting.

6. Birth control pills
Taking oral contraceptives or undergoing hormone replacement therapy can increase the blood’s tendency to clot.

7. Inflammatory bowel disease
Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease also increase the likelihood of DVT.

8. Smoking
Smoking is injurious to health as it affects blood circulation and clotting, increasing the chances of DVT.

9. A family history of DVT
If someone has a family history of the problem, he/she can be at a greater risk of getting it.

Prevention of DVT
For a good understanding of the problem, you must carefully learn not only about the risk factors of DVT, but also the tips for its prevention. The most common preventive measures include:

1. Avoid sitting still for long
If you have a sitting job, make sure to take a short break every 30 minutes and walk to stretch your legs and move your calf muscles. If you have had a recent surgery or are on bed rest for some reason, try to move as much as possible. If you are traveling in the car, stop every hour to walk around a bit.

2. Quit smoking
Smoking is a big risk factor for DVT and a whole host of other conditions. So, try to quit smoking altogether.

3. Exercise regularly
Being overweight also increases the chances of DVT. So, indulge in regular exercise for at least 30 minutes to keep yourself healthy and protected.

Understanding the risk factors and prevention of DVT is important to manage the problem carefully. You must get in touch with your doctor immediately in case of any symptoms.