Medically reviewed by Greg Martin, MD, FACS, DABVLM, on October 8, 2025
Blood clots rarely cross our minds—until an airline announcement reminds us of the in-flight risk or a friend or family member is affected.
But deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is far more common than many realize. According to the Cleveland Clinic, approximately 1 to 3 in every 1,000 adults develop a DVT or pulmonary embolism (PE) in the United States, and up to 300,000 people die each year as a result.
DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the body, typically in the legs, and can quickly become a serious condition. A clot may block circulation, causing swelling and pain; however, the greater danger arises if it breaks loose and travels to the lungs, leading to a pulmonary embolism. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, DVTs and PEs may affect as many as 900,000 Americans each year, with sudden death being the first symptom in about a quarter of PE cases.
Fortunately, Greg Martin, MD, FACS, DABVLM, lead vein physician at Center for Vein Restoration in Brunswick, GA, and Valdosta, GA, says there are proven ways to stay proactive and lower your DVT risk. If you’re noticing signs of vein disease or are concerned about your risk for blood clots, the specialists at CVR are here to help.
✅To schedule a consultation with Dr. Martin in Brunswick, Georgia, CLICK HERE.
✅To schedule a consultation with Dr. Martin in Valdosta, Georgia, CLICK HERE.
✅ Don’t live near Brunswick or Valdosta, Georgia? Call 240-965-3915 to speak with a helpful Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a vein clinic near you.
Our team can guide you through diagnosis, treatment options, and ongoing care so you feel supported every step of the way. Click below to access our online scheduling portal and book a consultation at one of the CVR’s 120+ vein clinics nationwide.
We also offer a same-day or next-day DVT rule-out service, along with personalized treatment plans, for added peace of mind. Call our hotline at 877-SCAN-DVT (877-722-6388) to schedule today.
The following are six simple, practical, and achievable ways to protect your veins and reduce the risk of developing a potentially life-threatening blood clot.
Movement is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent DVT. When your calf muscles contract, they push blood upward toward your heart, keeping circulation active. Long periods of sitting or lying still allow blood to pool in the lower legs, which increases the risk of clotting.
This means that if you work at a desk, it’s crucial to take breaks to stand and stretch every so often. If you’re traveling on a long flight or car ride, try to walk during breaks and perform simple seated exercises such as raising your heels or even tapping your toes. These seemingly small steps can make a big difference for your vein health and DVT risk, as they help to propel blood upward and promote proper circulation.
Genetics plays a major role in whether someone develops DVT. If you have relatives who have had blood clots, your own risk is much higher compared with someone without that family history. Studies show that individuals with multiple siblings who have experienced DVT face particularly elevated risks. According to an extensive study published in JAMA Internal Medicine (the MEGA study), individuals with two or more siblings who have experienced DVT face nearly a fourfold higher risk of developing a blood clot compared to people with no affected relatives.
Sharing this information with your doctor is crucial because it helps them to tailor prevention strategies to your background and needs. Your physician may recommend special precautions before and after surgery, closer monitoring of your circulation, and other steps to lower your risk of blood clots. The bottom line: becoming familiar with your genetic background empowers you to protect yourself from future complications.
Healthy eating habits do more than benefit your heart and weight. They also support your veins. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish can improve circulation and lower the risk of blood clot formation. A large population-based study published in Frontiers in Nutrition found that frequent fish consumption was linked to a lower incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE). VTE is the medical term for blood clots that form in the veins, including both DVT and PE.
Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, including salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed, are especially beneficial. Staying hydrated is equally important, since dehydration can thicken the blood, making clots more likely. When you choose nutrient-rich foods, you’re giving your body energy and protecting your circulation at the same time.
Some prescriptions can increase the risk of blood clotting without patients realizing it. Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills, estrogen therapy, and testosterone products, are known to raise your DVT risk. Even steroids, particularly in high doses, can have this effect. Research published in Frontiers in Endocrinology found that people taking corticosteroids had a higher chance of developing blood clots in the veins.
IMPORTANT: Even though certain medications may raise clotting risks, don’t stop taking them without medical guidance. Discuss your situation with a healthcare provider who can weigh the risks and benefits, monitor you for warning signs, or suggest safer alternatives if needed. Being informed about the links between certain medications and clotting is a powerful step toward prevention.
Carrying excess weight places additional strain on your veins, making it harder for blood to flow smoothly. According to the National Library of Medicine, obesity can raise your risk of blood clots over six times, especially if you’re over 50 or have more severe obesity.
The promising news is that even modest weight loss can improve circulation and reduce the risk of DVT. You can support your vein health while protecting your heart and joints by combining healthier eating habits with regular movement. Ultimately, maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most impactful lifestyle choices you can make.
One of the highest-risk times for developing DVT is during or after a hospital stay. According to ScienceDirect, many cases of VTE are linked to patients recently admitted for illness or surgery. Prolonged bed rest slows circulation, which makes blood clots more likely.
If you are preparing for surgery, ask your doctor for a DVT risk assessment. Preventive measures may include wearing compression stockings, taking blood-thinning medication, or using devices that encourage leg movement. Once your doctor approves, try to walk or move as soon as possible after surgery. These proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk of developing a dangerous clot.
DVT is a serious health concern, but awareness and prevention make a difference. You can help protect yourself from DVT and vein disease complications by staying active, paying attention to family history, eating well, reviewing medications, managing your weight, and being mindful before and after surgical procedures.
If you experience symptoms such as swelling, tenderness, or skin discoloration in your legs, don’t wait. Early evaluation and treatment can prevent a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
The team at Center for Vein Restoration is dedicated to helping patients protect their vein health and reduce their risk of developing a DVT. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your personal risk factors and the steps you can take to maintain strong circulation. Click the button below or call our Patient Services Representatives at 240-965-3915.
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