Prevent DVT: Practical Steps to Lower Your Blood Clot Risk

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) happens when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. It can be serious if the clot travels to the lungs. The good news: many DVTs are preventable with a few smart habits and knowing your risks.

Simple daily habits that cut risk

Move every hour. Sitting still for long periods—at work, on a flight, or after surgery—raises the chance of a clot. Stand, walk two to three minutes, or do ankle pumps at least once an hour.

Keep hydrated. Drink water through the day. Dehydration thickens blood and can raise clot risk. Avoid heavy alcohol during long travel or recovery periods.

Wear proper compression stockings when advised. Graduated compression stockings help blood flow from the lower legs. They should fit well—ask a pharmacist or clinician for the right size and pressure level.

Keep weight in a healthy range and stay active. Extra body weight stresses veins and slows circulation. Regular walking or low-impact exercise helps vein health.

Quit smoking. Smoking harms blood vessels and increases clot risk. Even short-term improvements after quitting reduce risk over time.

When medical prevention matters

Some situations need more than lifestyle steps. After major surgery, during long hospital stays, or if you have known clotting disorders, your doctor may suggest blood thinners (anticoagulants) or injections like low-molecular-weight heparin. If you use hormone therapy or birth control pills, ask your clinician about your personal risk before starting.

If you travel long distances, talk to your doctor first. For high-risk travelers, short courses of anticoagulants or wearing compression stockings during flights can be useful. On a plane, walk the aisle every hour and do calf raises in your seat.

Know the warning signs so you can act fast. Pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in one leg are common DVT symptoms. Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood may mean a clot reached the lungs—seek emergency care immediately.

After injury or surgery, follow your care plan. Early walking, leg exercises, and any prescribed meds reduce risk. Don’t skip doses of prescribed blood thinners and tell your team about any bleeding or unusual bruising.

Final practical tip: talk openly with your healthcare provider about your DVT risk. Share family history, recent travel, surgeries, or long immobility. That helps your doctor pick the right prevention plan for you—simple steps or prescribed treatments.