What is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and how can I avoid getting it?

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is when a blood clot forms in a vein, usually a deep leg vein (large vein in calf & thigh muscle), and causes lack of movement. Blood should only clot outside of a vein or artery, to prevent loss of blood. When it clots within an artery or vein, it can be dangerous.

It is a rare condition affecting around 1 in 2,000 people in the UK each year. It is less common in under 40’s, and becomes more common with age.

If the DVT breaks loose (becoming an embolism), this soft blood clot can be carried through the bloodstream to the lung (called a pulmonary embolism). This is serious as it blocks the blood flow in the lung and can cause sudden death from heart failure.

Both DVT and pulmonary embolism are serious and require urgent treatment.

Symptoms of a DVT in the leg include:

• swelling
• pain
• tenderness
• redness – particularly at the back of your calf

However, there may be no symptoms of a blood clot in the leg.
Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include breathlessness, chest pain and, in severe cases, collapse.

Tips for preventing DVT when travelling

When travelling over long distances, you should take the following precautions to help avoid developing a DVT:

• Increasing blood flow in your legs reduces the risk of clotting. While seated, bend and straighten you legs, feet and toes every 30 mins or so, and press the balls of your feet down against the floor or your foot rest.
• your upper body and take occasional short walks to improve circulation.
• Wear elastic compression stockings
• Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol or sleeping pills, which could lead to immobility.