Deep vein thrombosis or DVT is characterized as blood clots in veins found in one or more parts of the body. It may be caused due to a medical condition or when your body is immobile for a long time, for instance, a long duration of bed rest after surgery. Commonly affecting the legs, DVT shows symptoms like swollen legs, discolored skin, and a warm sensation in the affected area. Read on to find out the risk factors of DVT.

• Age

The chances of DVT increase with age, making people over 50 highly susceptible to DVT. Additionally, the risk factor increases if they already have a history of underlying conditions.

• Family history

Inheriting blood-clotting disorder is the most common risk factor of DVT. If an immediate family member has or had DVT, chances of being affected by it are higher.

• Pregnancy

The increased pressure on the veins of the pelvis, thighs, and lower legs during pregnancy increases the risk of DVT. During pregnancy, blood-clotting protein levels increase, and anti-clotting proteins decrease in the body.

• Catheter insertion

Patients who have had peripherally inserted central catheters face an additional risk factor of DVT. Many studies claim that the bigger the size of the catheter, the higher the risk of DVT.

• Overweight

Obesity is responsible for increasing the risk factors for many illnesses. The excess weight puts pressure on the lower body, increasing the chances of blood clots. Obese people are more prone to inflammation and diabetes, and both factors add to higher chances of DVT.

• Surgery

Surgeries, in general, are linked with many side effects, and even a small surgery can increase the risk of DVT. Surgeries performed on the lower body, such as hip and knee replacement require lengthy recovery period, making one likely to have blood clots.

• Birth control pills

Oral contraceptives contribute to the risk of DVT, but it’s not a substantial cause of risk compared with pregnancy.

• Smoking

Smoking interferes with the circulation of oxygen through red blood cells, and the carbon monoxide increases cholesterol levels, making one vulnerable to heart diseases. The lining of the blood vessels is compromised, making one more prone to blood clots.

• Cancer

Cancer cells release certain chemicals that combine with blood, damaging tissues, and forming blood clots. Chemotherapy increases the risk of DVT as it damages blood vessels and lowers the levels of proteins that prevents clots.

• Heart failure

Patients with a weak heart don’t are unable to pump blood to all parts of the body due to slow blood flow. This makes them susceptible to clots in their bloodstream, which can become serious if the blood clots loosen and deposit in the lungs. This can result in blockage of blood flow, putting anyone with congestive heart failure at a higher risk.