Blood clots in the legs, also known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can be a serious condition. If a blood clot breaks loose, it can travel to the lungs and block an artery, causing a pulmonary embolism. This can be fatal. There are a number of things you can do to help prevent blood clots in your legs, including:
Losing weight if you are overweight or obese. Excess weight puts pressure on your veins and can make it more difficult for blood to flow through them. Getting regular exercise. Exercise helps to keep your blood flowing and can reduce your risk of blood clots. Wearing compression stockings. Compression stockings help to squeeze your veins and keep blood flowing. Elevating your legs when you are sitting or lying down. This helps to reduce pressure on your veins and can help prevent blood clots. Avoiding sitting or standing for long periods of time. If you have to sit or stand for a long period of time, take breaks to walk around or move your legs. Drinking plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated helps to keep your blood flowing and can reduce your risk of blood clots. Eating a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol can help to keep your blood vessels healthy and reduce your risk of blood clots.
