DVT Prevention: How to Stop Blood Clots Before They Start

When you sit too long—on a flight, at a desk, or after surgery—your blood can start pooling in your legs. That’s when deep vein thrombosis, a blood clot forming in a deep vein, usually in the leg. Also known as DVT, it’s not just uncomfortable—it can lead to a life-threatening pulmonary embolism if the clot breaks loose. The good news? Most cases are preventable with simple, proven steps.

DVT prevention isn’t about fancy treatments or expensive drugs. It starts with movement. If you’re stuck sitting for hours, get up every hour and walk for two minutes. Even ankle circles or flexing your feet while seated helps push blood back toward your heart. People recovering from surgery, pregnant women, or those on birth control are at higher risk, but so are travelers on long flights or office workers who never leave their chairs. anticoagulants, medications that thin the blood to stop clots from forming. Also known as blood thinners, they’re often prescribed after hospital stays or for people with a history of clots. But they’re not for everyone—your doctor will weigh your risk of bleeding against your risk of clots.

Compression stockings are another low-tech tool that works. They squeeze your legs just enough to keep blood flowing, not so tight that they cut off circulation. Studies show they cut DVT risk by half after major surgery. And don’t ignore hydration—dehydration thickens your blood, making clots more likely. Drink water, especially on flights or during hot weather. Avoid alcohol and caffeine when you’re sedentary for long periods.

What you eat matters too. High-sugar, high-fat diets contribute to inflammation and poor circulation. Swap processed snacks for vegetables, nuts, and whole grains. If you’re overweight, losing even 5-10% of your body weight reduces pressure on your veins. And if you smoke? Quitting is one of the best things you can do for your circulation—no matter your age.

Some people think DVT only happens to older adults or the very sick. But it’s rising in younger, active people too—especially after injuries, long car rides, or even intense workouts that cause muscle trauma. If you suddenly feel swelling, warmth, or pain in one leg—especially if it’s only on one side—don’t wait. Get it checked. Early detection saves lives.

The posts below give you real, no-fluff advice on how to avoid DVT in everyday life, after surgery, during travel, and while managing other health conditions. You’ll find tips on when to use compression gear, how to talk to your doctor about blood thinners, what to do if you’re on bed rest, and how diet and movement work together to keep your blood flowing safely. No jargon. No guesswork. Just what actually works.