Have you ever heard the recommendations to get up and walk around or wear compression stockings during long car or plane trips? Sitting for a long time without moving your legs is one of many factors that put you at increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. This condition can be dangerous and may require emergency medical treatment. Fortunately, it can be prevented with a combination of lifestyle changes and specialized vein treatment that restores healthy circulation.
What is Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that develops in the deep veins of your legs. When blood flow in these large veins is affected by a failure in the one-way valves that prevent backflow, this stagnating blood flow can begin to clot. A thrombosis or blood clot forms and can cause redness, swelling, and pain. The biggest risk of DVT is the possibility of pieces of the clot breaking off and traveling to the lungs or other parts of the body, causing a medical emergency.