The term deep vein thrombosis leaves many people confused as not many know what the condition entails and what should be done if one becomes a victim of it. Deep vein thrombosis normally occurs due to the formation of a blood clot in any one of the deeper veins in the body. It can trigger severe pain and swelling.

This is especially dangerous when the blood clots loosen and travel right up to the lungs via the bloodstream, blocking the flow of blood leading to a pulmonary embolism.

Given below are some of the main symptoms of deep vein thrombosis:

• Swelling in the leg that has been affected
• Affected muscles may experience a warmth
• Discolored or reddish patches of skin in the affected area
• Severe ache in the muscles that develops into cramps or soreness

What are the triggers for deep vein thrombosis?
Deep vein thrombosis can be triggered due to anything that blocks blood circulation and causes clotting. It can occur after surgery, specific medications or an injured vein. However, there are some risk factors that make one more prone to developing this condition. These include:

• Pregnancy
  Pregnancy elevates the pressure in the veins of the legs and pelvis. Pregnant women are always victims of some kind of clotting disorder and deep vein thrombosis is just another one.
• Obesity
  Obesity also puts added pressure in your veins, leading to blockage and clotting.
• Smoking
  Smoking interferes with circulation and causes blood clots, putting one at a greater risk of developing deep vein thrombosis.
• Cancer
  Some kinds of cancer trigger a flow of substances into the bloodstream that can cause blood clotting.
• Surgery or bed rest for prolonged periods
  When your muscles are inactive and one is confined to bed rest, there is insufficient contraction than what is normally required to aid blood circulation. This can increase the chances of blood clots, leading to a greater risk of deep vein thrombosis.
• Hereditary factors
  Some people inherit some kind of blood clotting disorders. When combined with another risk factor, it can trigger deep vein thrombosis.

How can deep vein thrombosis be averted?
This condition can be averted if you take care of some issues like:

• Altering your lifestyle
  Quitting smoking and losing weight are alterations that can be adopted in order to lower the chances of one becoming a victim of deep vein thrombosis.
• Physical exercise
  Exercising on a regular basis at least three to four times a week can surely reduce the risk of blood clotting.
• Being active
  Even if you have just undergone surgery or have been confined to the bed, it is imperative that you start moving your legs and walking whenever possible.