Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condition characterized by the formation of clots in the veins. This condition primarily affects the deep veins of the legs. The symptoms are very uncomfortable for patients and can lead to complications as well. Therefore, recognizing that you are at risk of this condition and taking preventive measures is your best bet. Let’s look into the details of how you can prevent DVT.
Watch for the Risk Factors of DVT
Some factors increase your risk of suffering from DVT. Many of these risk factors are quite common, including those undergoing surgery, being bedridden, smoking, oral contraceptive pills (OCP) use, kidney conditions, aging, pregnancy, recent childbirth, family history, previous history of DVT, and hormone replacement therapy. If you have any of these risk factors, your risk of suffering from DVT is higher. Speak to your doctor about your individual risk and how you can prevent clots.
Here are additional ways you can prevent DVT.
Lose Weight
Being overweight or obese is a risk factor for DVT. Maintain your body mass index (BMI) within the normal range of 17 to 25. If it is higher than this, you should look for ways to lose weight. Read our blog on tips to get started with a workout plan.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is a risk factor for a lot of diseases, including DVT. Therefore, quitting smoking can lower your risk for DVT and other health conditions. Stopping smoking at once is hard for most smokers; speak to your doctor about the best option for you.
Maintain an Active Lifestyle
Having an active lifestyle is vital for a healthy life as it can prevent many diseases. Sitting for a long time and staying inactive are risk factors for DVT. Try to exercise at least three times per week. If your job involves sitting for long hours, take a short walk after one hour to two hours intervals.
Use Compression Stockings
If you have multiple risk factors for DVT or have suffered from it in the past, use compression stocking. These stockings make sure that the blood does not pool in your legs and prevent the formation of clots.
Stay Cautious When Using Hormonal Therapy
If you need to undergo hormonal therapy, ensure that you discuss the possibility of DVT with your doctor. This conversation is crucial if you have a history of DVT or multiple risk factors. Estrogen is a hormone that is associated with DVT. Your doctor can suggest you an alternative to reduce the risk.
Drink Ample Water
Being well-hydrated is also crucial for the prevention of DVT. If you are dehydrated, your blood thickens, and the concentration of clotting factors is increased. This can increase the risk of clot formation. Therefore, drink at least seven to eight glasses of water every day.
Control Underlying Diseases
The risk of DVT is increased when you have other health conditions, such as kidney disease. Therefore, managing the underlying disease is vital in order to prevent DVT.
Regular health visits can help in preventing DVT as they allow your doctor to recognize your risk and intervene at an early stage.
Learn more about how to reduce the risk of DVT while traveling.
