Risk Factors for Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that occurs in a vein within the body. It is common that the clots occur in the large veins of the thigh, pelvis or lower leg, they can also occur in the arm. According to the Center for Disease Control the precise number of people affected by deep vein thrombosis is unknown, although as many as 900,000 people could be affected annually in the United States.

DVT is often under-diagnosed and serious, however the condition is often preventable. There are several DVT risk factors that increase the likelihood that you will be diagnosed:

1. Genetics

Your family history can impact your risk of developing blood clots. Some people inherit a disorder that makes their blood clot more easily, while others clot slower. However, the speed in which your blood does or doesn’t clot is not the sole determinant. Other risk factors can increase your likelihood to develop blood clots.

2. Extended bed rest or sitting for long periods of time

Patients that are bound to bed, people with limited mobility and those that sit for extended periods are at a higher risk of developing DVT. When your legs remain still for long periods, your muscles don’t contract to help blood circulate, the decreased flow of blood often allows clots to form. Blood clots are a reason why caregivers often want patients to get out of bed and move post-surgery. When traveling or driving long distances people should plan regular stops where you can walk and increase circulation, preventing deep vein thrombosis and increasing circulation.

3. Being overweight or obese

Being overweight increases the pressure on the veins, especially those in your pelvis and legs. A body mass index (BMI) of more than 35 increases your risk.

4. Pregnancy

As pressure increases on the women’s pelvis and legs during pregnancy, they are at a higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. The risk increases with each trimester and continues for up to six weeks after the birth of the baby.

5. Age

Although deep vein thrombosis can occur at any age, it is more common in people over the age of 60.

6. Cancer diagnosis

Some cancer diagnosis and treatments increase substances in your blood that cause your blood to clot and increase your risk.

7. Heart failure

People with heart issues who have limited heart and lung function, which can contribute to DVT.

8. Inflammatory bowel disease

Bowel diseases including Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis increase the risk of DVT.

9. Birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy

Estrogen increases risk factors. Both birth control and hormone replace therapy increases your blood’s ability to clot, with the worst risk in first months of therapy.

10. Smoking

Smoking is not a risk factor alone but can increase your risk of cancer and other contributing risks.