- Pregnancy/Postpartum: Pregnant women develop changed body chemistry, which makes them more prone to clots. The reduced blood flow to the legs caused by pressure from the fetus can increase risk as well. This elevated risk continues for up to 6 weeks after delivery.
- Limited Mobility: Being hospitalized, bedridden with a chronic illness, or having limited mobility for a range of reasons can increase your risk for a DVT
- Smoking: Smoking increases your chances for developing a DVT
What Are The Signs and Symptoms?
If you have developed a DVT, you may experience:
Swelling
A DVT may cause fluid buildup around the clot, which will cause the limb to become swollen. If one limb is more swollen than the other, it may be the sign that you’ve developed a DVT, especially if you’re in an at-risk category.
Pain
A DVT may cause the area around it to become painful, tender or sore. This can range from mild discomfort, similar to a bruise, to excruciating pain that makes it difficult to walk or move the extremity. Some patients have reported that the pain from a DVT is similar to that of a Charley horse.