Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms on the wall of a vein, then breaks free and lodges in your lungs. DVT can be fatal and usually occurs without any symptoms. Certain medical history, lifestyle and event-based factors can increase your risks of DVT. If you feel that you’re at a higher risk of DVT, you should talk with your doctor about what you can do to prevent it.
DVT History
If you or one of your family members has a history of DVT, you’re at an increased risk. Once you’ve had DVT or a pulmonary embolism, you’re at a higher risk of having DVT again, according to the Mayo Clinic. Also, your DVT risks increase if you have a family history of the condition.
Cardiovascular Disorders & Obesity
If you’re obese or overweight, you have an increased risk of DVT due to the extra weight and pressure on your lower body. Also, your risk of DVT increases if you have certain cardiovascular diseases like heart failure, heart disease, blood-clotting disorders or varicose veins, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Certain types of cancer can also increase blood clotting, which elevates DVT risks.
Sitting for Long Time Periods
Being inactive or sitting for long periods of time can increase your susceptibility for DVT. DVT sometimes occurs after a long trip on an airplane or in a car, because your calf muscles aren’t contracting and helping circulate your blood. You’re also more likely to develop blood clots in general when you’re sitting for a long time, which increases your DVT risks.
Surgery or Injury
Just like with travel, inactivity following surgery, injury or illness can reduce blood circulation in your legs and increase blood clots, according to the Mayo Clinic. This can increase your chances of DVT. You’re at a higher risk of developing DVT while you’re hospitalized or on bed rest.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy can increase your DVT risks due to the increased weight and pressure on your legs and pelvis, as well as the reduced physical activity. The increased chances of DVT can continue after childbirth as well, due to reduced activity and continued pelvic pressure during the postpartum period.
Certain Medications
Some medications can increase the stickiness of your blood platelets, promoting clotting. Medications like oral contraceptives and estrogen therapies can increase your chances of DVT due to their effects on blood clotting, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Smoking cigarettes also increases blood clotting and impedes circulation, increasing your DVT risks.
Intravenous Catheters
If you have catheters placed into your veins for prolonged periods of time, you’re at an elevated risk of DVT. Having a pacemaker or intravenous catheter can irritate your veins and harm blood circulation.
