Is Deep Vein Thrombosis Preventable?

Deep Vein Thrombosis (or DVT) occurs when you develop a blood clot deep in the vein of your lower leg. This can be painful and usually results in swelling in your ankles and calves. When DVT is serious, it can cause chest pain, shortness of breath or dizziness. You’re more at risk for DVT if you’re over 40 years old, have a family history of DVT, are overweight, or if you’ve had recent surgery. The good news is DVT can be prevented.

Consider the following guidelines:

• Stay active. This doesn’t mean you need to hit the gym every day, but it is important to live an active lifestyle to protect against developing DVT. Moderate activities like walking, swimming and yoga are great ways to improve blood circulation.
• Watch your blood pressure. If you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, you’re not only putting yourself at risk for heart complications like stroke and heart attack; you’re also at higher risk for DVT. That’s why controlling your blood pressure is especially important.
• Stretch during lengthy trips. Sitting for a long time in a car or on a plane can up your chances for DVT. When you travel, pull off to a rest stop or walk the aisle of the plane every three hours or so to stretch your muscles.
• Kick the habit. If you smoke, you’re not doing your veins any favors. Besides increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers, smoking increases your blood pressure, which has a direct correlation to DVT. What’s more, smoking prohibits blood circulation and ups your chance of getting a blood clot.
• See your doctor regularly. Prevention is the best way to reduce your risk of developing DVT. Visit your doctor annually for a full checkup, and if you have increased risk of DVT because of family history, weight gain or age, discuss this with your physician.

Could you be at risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis? Contact Reeder Vein Institute.
For more information about preventing DVT, contact us today. You can reach us directly at 682-499-5672 in Fort Worth. We look forward to hearing from you!