When a blood clot forms in a person’s veins, located deep inside the body, it is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This can lead to swelling, pain, and if the blood clot breaks loose, it can move in the blood to other parts of their body. Such a clot often appears in the lower leg. There are some rare cases wherein the flow of blood to the person’s lungs also gets cut off.
Detecting deep vein thrombosis is difficult. Therefore, it is important to be fully aware of the risk factors of the condition.
What you need to know about developing DVT includes the following:
1. Recurring blood clots
A person who has already had a blood clot in the past can experience a case of relapse of this condition. Around 30 percent of people who have had deep vein thrombosis are likely to have it again.
2. Family history
A person who has had a family history regarding deep vein thrombosis is also at risk of developing the condition. If the person’s parents or their siblings have had deep vein thrombosis, the person is at a higher risk of developing this condition. If both parents of the patient have been diagnosed, the concerned person has greater chances of developing the condition.
3. Age
If a person is above the age of 40, the possibility of developing deep vein thrombosis is also on the higher side.
4. Sitting for long periods
A person who is bedridden or someone who needs to sit for a long time can also suffer from deep vein thrombosis. This is because the deep veins are located in the center of the person’s legs — these veins help in pumping blood to the heart and lungs. If the muscles do not have any movement for some time, the blood begins to pool in the lower part of the leg. This increases the possibility of blood clots.
5. Blood clotting disorder
There are some individuals who are born with a disorder that affects the clotting of the blood. This can affect the blood by making it a little thick. Such individuals may also suffer from DVT.
6. Inflammation or cancer
If the person has other health issues like diseases related to inflammatory bowels, lungs, and the heart, it is likely that he/she may also suffer from deep vein thrombosis. Also, people who have cancer or are undergoing treatment for cancer may develop this condition.
7. Injuries or bone fractures
If a person’s veins have been injured due to a bone fracture or an injury to the person’s muscle, that person may be at risk. This may damage the inner lining of the vein. This leads to higher chances of developing a clot. A person is at a higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis when they have undergone a major surgery on the leg, hip, pelvis, or the stomach.