Updated:
by
Laura Kelsey, MD
Medically reviewed by Laura Kelsey, MD, on February 5, 2026
It goes without saying that fainting spells in older adults should never be ignored. Beyond the immediate dangers of falls and fractures, fainting can be an early warning sign of serious circulatory problems, including potentially life-threatening blood clots. For older adults, identifying and addressing vein disease and blood clot risk factors can be a life-saving step toward preventing future episodes.
According to the Mayo Clinic, blood clots that form in the legs can sometimes break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE), a dangerous blockage in the lungs that can reduce oxygen levels and disrupt blood flow. These sudden changes in circulation can make you feel lightheaded or short of breath, cause a rapid heartbeat, and, in some cases, lead to fainting. If these symptoms occur along with leg swelling, they should be assessed urgently.
We consulted with Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) vein expert Dr. Laura Kelsey regarding how circulation problems and blood clots can contribute to fainting in older adults. Recognizing the connection between vein health, blood clots, and fainting is essential to protecting long-term health and maintaining independence.
Dr. Kelsey is the lead physician at CVR vein clinic locations in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Muskegon, Michigan.
📅To schedule a consultation with Dr. Kelsey in Grand Rapids, Michigan, CLICK HERE.
📅To schedule a consultation with Dr. Kelsey in Muskegon, Michigan, CLICK HERE.
📍 Don’t live near Grand Rapids or Muskegon, Michigan? Call 240-249-8250 to speak with a Patient Services Representative, or schedule your consultation online at one of our 120+ CVR vein clinics near you HERE.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), falls are a leading cause of injury and death among people age 65 and older. When fainting is involved, the risk of serious injury, hospitalization, and long-term loss of mobility increases significantly.
Common causes of fainting in older adults include:
A landmark study published by the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) found that pulmonary embolism was present in up to 17 percent of patients hospitalized for a first episode of syncope, even when other causes were suspected. The authors concluded that pulmonary embolism is frequently overlooked in patients presenting with fainting.
Blood clots most often begin in the deep veins of the legs, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If part of a clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism (PE). PE can cause sudden changes in oxygen levels and blood flow that lead to symptoms such as:
In some cases, fainting may be one of the first noticeable signs of a pulmonary embolism, particularly in older adults with underlying heart or lung conditions.
If you or a loved one has experienced fainting, dizziness, or a recent fall, it may be time to look beyond surface symptoms. A consultation with Center for Vein Restoration can help identify underlying vein problems and circulation issues that may increase the risk of blood clots and falls. Early evaluation and treatment can provide peace of mind and help prevent more serious complications.
Vein disease, including chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins, is a major contributor to clot formation. Healthy leg veins rely on one-way valves to push blood upward toward the heart. When those valves weaken, blood can pool in the legs, slowing circulation and increasing pressure inside the veins.
Cleveland Clinic confirms that varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency increase the risk of superficial blood clots and that these clots can be associated with, or progress to, deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Common vein-related risk factors linked to clot risk include:
Early diagnosis allows for prompt vein treatment and clot management, reducing the risk of serious complications.
Leg swelling, leg pain, and visible varicose veins are not just cosmetic concerns. These symptoms may signal venous insufficiency and an increased risk for blood clots. Scheduling a consultation with Center for Vein Restoration allows a vein specialist to assess circulation and recommend personalized vein treatment to help protect long-term health.
📍Find a Center for Vein Restoration near you HERE
Understanding the causes of blood clots in older adults is key to prevention. While blood clots affect people of all ages, those aged 60 and older are at the highest risk, according to the National Library of Medicine (NIH) MedlinePlus.
In addition to age, many older adults have other risk factors, including:
Reduced physical activity is a major contributor to blood clots. When leg muscles are not regularly contracting, blood flow slows, making it easier for clots to form. NYU Langone urges anyone who has recently had surgery to regain mobility as quickly and safely as possible to help prevent blood clots.
Blood clots can develop quietly and become dangerous quickly. If you or someone you care for has risk factors for blood clots, Center for Vein Restoration can evaluate vein health early and help reduce the risk of complications.
📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-249-8250
📅 Or book online HERE
Blood clots do not always cause obvious symptoms. However, common warning signs of DVT include:
Blood clots can be life-threatening, especially in older adults. That’s why Center for Vein Restoration offers same-day DVT rule-out services to help families get fast answers. Our hotline is 877-SCAN-DVT (877-722-6388).
Signs of pulmonary embolism may include:
If you or a loved one shows sudden breathing changes, chest pain, or fainting, seek emergency care immediately or call 9-1-1.
Today’s treatment focuses on preventing clot growth and reducing the risk of future clots. According to Mayo Clinic, modern treatment options include:
According to Mayo Clinic, IVC filters are now used far less frequently than in the past and are generally reserved for patients who cannot take anticoagulant medications. This reflects updated best practices and evolving safety data.
Preventing blood clots starts with proactive vein care and healthy habits. Evidence-based strategies include:
Stay Physically Active
Daily walking and regular movement help leg muscles pump blood back to the heart.
Manage Vein Problems Early
Treating venous insufficiency and varicose veins can improve circulation and reduce pooling.
Wear Proper Compression
Graduated compression stockings can reduce swelling and improve blood flow when properly fitted.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight increases pressure on leg veins and worsens vein disease.
Follow Medical Guidance After Surgery or Illness
Anticoagulants and mobility plans help reduce the risk of blood clots during recovery. Compression therapy and movement are proven tools for supporting circulation and preventing clot formation.
Blood clots and vein disease can develop quietly and become dangerous quickly, especially in older adults. If you or someone you care for has symptoms like leg swelling, leg pain, visible veins, or fainting, don’t wait.
Center for Vein Restoration is America’s largest physician-led vein center, offering expert evaluation of vein disease, circulation problems, and blood clot risk. With 120+ locations nationwide and a 98% patient satisfaction rate, CVR is a trusted leader in treating venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and related conditions that can increase the risk of fainting and falls.
📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-249-8250
📅 Or schedule an appointment online today to have vein health evaluated by a board-certified vein specialist.⬇️
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