Under the expert guidance of our Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, Dr. Mark Zuzga, our team of Vein Specialists & Vascular Experts are committed to delivering top-tier outpatient vascular & vein evaluation and treatment throughout the greater Tampa & West Florida surrounding areas. Should you find yourself dealing with leg pain, swelling, ulcers, discoloration, or the appearance of spider and varicose veins, we invite you to request a screening today
What Causes DVTs To Form and How to Reduce Your Risk
Deep Vein Thrombosis, or DVT, is a serious medical condition that can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated. It occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins within the body, usually in the legs. DVTs can affect anyone, but some people are at higher risk than others. In this blog post, we will discuss what causes DVTs to form and how you can reduce your risk with the help of Dr. Mark Zuzga, D.O. of West Florida Vein Center.
RISK FACTORS
There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of developing a DVT. The most common risk factors include being overweight or obese, having a family history of blood clots, undergoing surgery or being hospitalized for an extended period of time, and taking hormonal birth control or hormone replacement therapy. Other factors, such as smoking and sitting or standing for long periods of time, can also increase your risk.
REDUCE THE RISK
To reduce your risk of developing a DVT, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking, and try to move around as much as possible, especially if you sit or stand for long periods of time. Elevating your legs while sitting or lying down can also help improve circulation and reduce your risk of a blood clot.
IF YOU ARE AT RISK
If you have a higher risk of developing a DVT, you may benefit from medication or compression stockings. Medications such as blood thinners can help prevent blood clots from forming, while compression stockings can improve circulation in the legs and reduce your risk of a DVT.
Dr. Mark Zuzga, D.O. of West Florida Vein Center, can work with you to help identify your specific risk factors and develop a personalized plan for reducing your risk of a DVT. He may also recommend procedures such as vein ablation or phlebectomy to treat existing vein issues that could increase your risk of a DVT.
The Take Away
If you are at higher risk for DVTs, it’s important to take steps to reduce your risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and staying active can all help improve circulation and reduce your chances of developing a blood clot.
If you have concerns about your risk for DVT, talk to your doctor, or contact Dr. Mark Zuzga, D.O. of West Florida Vein Center for a consultation today. Call the West Florida Vein Center at 727-712-3233 or visit us online at www.westfloridaveincenter.com.
By staying proactive about your health, you can help prevent serious complications and maintain a healthy lifestyle.