How to Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis

A deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot that forms inside a vein, generally in the lower leg. It can partially or completely block blood flow and in some cases break off and travel to the lung. If this happens, serious complications could arise. This condition can affect people of any age, though it's most common in people over the age of 60. Taking steps to prevent it merely requires some simple life style changes.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Stop smoking, especially if you take estrogen. Use of tobacco products and hormone therapies are major risk factors for developing this condition.

2. Start moving your lower limbs as soon as possible after any surgery or during an illness requiring a long bed rest. The sooner you get moving, the less your chances of blood clots forming.

3. Exercise your legs every couple of hours when on extended car or airplane trip. Get up and walk around to keep your blood circulating and preventing a deep vein thrombosis from forming.

4. Keep your weight and your blood pressure under control. Obesity and high blood pressure are primary risk factors for deep vein thrombosis.

5. Wear support stockings if your doctor recommends them. If you've had problems in the past or are at a high risk of developing deep vein thrombosis, compression stocking will help with circulation.

6. Limit your intake of vitamin K if you are taking blood thinners as it can affect how the drug works in your body. Canola, soy beans and green leafy vegetables are all high in vitamin K.

Tips & Warnings

• See your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual swelling, discoloration or tenderness in your legs. These symptoms could be signs of a blood clot forming.

Resources

• Visit www.mayoclinic.com for information about diagnosis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis.

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