Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) refers to a condition wherein a blood clot, also known as a thrombus, forms in the legs. It usually forms in one of the deep veins in the leg. DVT is a serious health condition and can affect anyone, but certain risk factors for DVT add to the risk of a person developing the condition:

• Age
  DVT can affect an individual at any age, but it is highly likely to affect the older population, especially those above 60 years of age. The older one grows, the higher the risk of DVT, especially if they lead a sedentary lifestyle.
• Having a blood-clotting disorder
  If one has an inherited condition or disorder that makes them prone to developing blood clots quickly or excessively, they are at a higher risk of DVT. Although this reason alone does not increase the risk a lot, if one has a clotting disorder along with another risk factor, the chances of developing DVT increase significantly.
• Family history
  A family history of pulmonary embolism and DVT are among the common risk factors for DVT. If a person or their family members had either or both of these conditions in the past, they are at risk of developing DVT.
• Obesity
  Being overweight or obese increases the pressure on veins in the legs and pelvis, adding to the risk of developing DVT.
• Surgery or injury
  Sometimes, surgery involving the veins can increase the risk of developing DVT. Similarly, if the veins get injured, there are higher chances of blood clots forming, which can cause DVT.
• Heart failure
  Heart failure renders the lung and heart unable to function properly, and heart failure increases the risk of pulmonary embolism, along with DVT.
• Immobility
  If one doesn’t move their legs for long, it affects blood circulation and can lead to blood clots forming in the calves, which, in turn, can increase the risk of DVT. This can be while flying or driving.
• Prolonged bed rest
  Blood circulation is affected if one does not move for long, increasing the risk of DVT. For example, if one is on prolonged bed rest or on a hospital stay, the legs are not moving for long, and blood clots can form easily.
• Cancer
  Some types of cancer are also risk factors for DVT, and these are the cancers that contribute to quicker blood clotting. Sometimes, even cancer treatment causes blood clotting and increases the risk of DVT.
• Pregnancy
  Pregnancy leads to pressure on the leg and pelvic veins, elevating the risk of DVT that stays until approximately 6 weeks after childbirth. If a woman has an inherited blood clotting disorder, her risk of developing DVT is much higher.
• Smoking
  Another risk factor for DVT is smoking, as it affects blood circulation and blood clotting in the body. The more regularly one smokes, the higher is the risk of DVT.
• Oral contraceptives
  Research has found that women who take birth control pills are at a higher risk of DVT, as the pills can increase the body’s ability to clot blood. Hormone replacement therapy can also increase the risk of this condition.