Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Risk factors for DVT

Anything that slows blood flow, injures the lining of a vein, or increases blood clotting can make you more prone to having DVT. This includes the following:

• Long periods without movement (such as when sitting for many hours at a time or when recovering from major surgery or illness)

• Estrogen (female hormone) therapy, such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or birth control pills

• Fractured hip or leg

• Major surgery or joint replacement

• Major trauma or spinal cord injury

• Cancer

• Family history

• Excess weight or obesity

• Smoking

• Older age

• Past history of a DVT

• Inherited clotting disorders

Symptoms

DVT does not always cause symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may appear around the site of the DVT, such as in the leg. Possible symptoms include:

• Swelling

• Pain

• Warmth

• Redness

• Tenderness

Home care

• You were likely prescribed blood thinners (anticoagulants). They may be given as pills (oral) or shots (injections). Follow all instructions when using these medicines. Note: Don't take blood thinners with other medicines, herbal remedies, or supplements without talking to your provider first. Certain medicines or products can affect how blood thinners work.

• Follow your provider’s instructions about activity and rest.

• If support or compression stockings are prescribed, wear them as directed. These may help improve blood flow in the legs.

• When sitting or lying down, move your ankles, toes and knees often. This may also help improve blood flow in the legs.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised. If imaging tests were done, they may need further review by a doctor. You will be told of any new findings that may affect your care.

When to get medical advice

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:

• New or increased swelling, pain, soreness, warmth, or redness, in the leg, arm, or other area

• Blood in the urine

• Bleeding with bowel movements

Call 911

Call 911 if any of these occur:

• Bleeding from the nose, gums, a cut, or vagina

• Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding

• Trouble breathing

• Chest pain or discomfort that worsens with deep breathing or coughing

• Coughing (may cough up blood)

• Fast heartbeat

• Sweating

• Anxiety

• Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting