Going on a trip? Deep vein thrombosis, what you need to know.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a large (deep) vein in the leg. Part of the clot may break off and travel to the lungs, causing a sudden blockage of arteries in the lung. This is known as a pulmonary embolism (PE). These conditions are rare, but it’s important to understand what causes them, if you are at risk, and what steps you can take to prevent them.

Almost anyone can have DVT, but if you’re traveling for a long time, such as on an international trip, you may be at increased risk. This increased risk more often occurs with air travel, where you’re in a confined space and it’s hard to get up and move around. But DVT can also happen when you are traveling by bus, train, or car.

Travel more than 4 hours carries a risk of DVT whether by plane, train, car or bus.

Most people who develop travel-associated DVT have other factors that increase their chance of developing a DVT. If any of the following risk factors apply to you , ask your doctor whether you need to wear compression stockings or take a blood thinner medicine to help prevent clots.

A previous blood clot
Family history of blood clots
Known inherited clotting disorder
Recent surgery, hospitalization, or injury
Use of estrogen-containing birth control or hormone replacement therapy
Current or recent pregnancy
Older than 65
Obesity
Active cancer (or undergoing chemotherapy)
Other serious illnesses, including congestive heart failure or inflammatory bowel diseaseMove your legs and feet (raise your heels with your toes on the floor) and get out of your seat every hour or so

You can take steps to help prevent DVT. These steps include

Drink plenty of water but avoid alcohol and caffeine
Wear loose clothing
Avoid sleeping pills
If you are driving stop every hour and walk for a few minutes.

Be alert to these signs and symptoms

Leg clot (DVT)

welling, pain, or tenderness usually in one leg
Skin that is red and warm to the touch

Leg clot (DVT)

Difficulty breathing
Sudden shortness of breath
Faster than normal heartbeat
Chest pain that usually gets worse when you cough or breathe deeply
Coughing up blood
Lightheadedness or fainting

Varicose Vein Treatment

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Varicose Vein Treatment

Face and Body Treatment