Health Tip: Know Your Risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis

(HealthDay News) — A dangerous condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot develops in a vein deep inside the body.

The U.S. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute mentions these potential risk factors:

Having had a previous DVT, or taking medication that thickens the blood or promotes clotting.
Having had surgery, a broken bone or other injury that affects a deep vein.
Having reduced blood flow to a deep vein as a result of inactivity. Typical causes are post-surgical recovery, or taking a long trip that limits your ability to move around.
Being pregnant.
Being treated for cancer.
Having a central venous catheter.
Being over the age of 60, being a smoker or being obese.