The Dangers Of Deep Vein Thrombosis

What Causes DVT?

The blood clots of deep vein thrombosis can be caused by anything that prevents blood from flowing freely throughout the body and clotting normally, such as an injury to a vein, surgery especially on the lower extremities, specific medications, and limited movement. One of the most predominant risk factors for developing DVT is if a patient inherits a blood-clotting disorder that allows their blood to clot more easily. However, the inherited condition might not cause blood clots alone unless it is combined with one or more risk factors.

Risk Factors Patients Need To Be Aware Of

Prolonged bed rest or limited movements, such as during an extensive hospital stay or paralysis can result in DVT. This is especially true for the legs as if they remain still for long periods, the calf muscles do not contract properly to help blood circulate, increasing the chances of the formation of blood clots. Pregnancy increases the risk factor of a woman developing DVT, as it increases pressure on the woman's veins in the pelvis and legs, and the risk is still present for up to six weeks after giving birth. Other risk factors include birth control pills and other oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, some forms of cancer, heart failure, inflammatory bowel disease, a patient over the age of sixty, heavy smoking, and being overweight or obese.