Who is at Greatest Risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Everyone who is inactive in a leg-cramped position for several hours is at risk! However, other conditions also play a role.

• Obese and tall individuals are at greater risk.
• Smokers
• Anyone with a history of leg clots, leg or pelvic surgery, or recent leg injuries.
• Women who are pregnant and women taking birth-control pills or hormone replacement therapy.
• Men or women with Varicose Veins, Phlebitis, or a history of other venous complications.
• Elderly men and women have a greater incidence of DVT.
• Those who have Thrombophilia (the opposite of Hemophilia) have blood that coagulates very rapidly and are at much greater risk for DVT. Few of the estimated 3% to 5% of the population suffering from Thrombophilia are ever diagnosed with this malady.

Warning Signs include:

• Pain and warmth in the lower legs
• Prickly skin sensation in the legs
• Swelling of the feet or legs
• Shortness of breath