Post DVT Care Tips

Now that NBA star Victor Wembanyama has developed a deep vein thrombosis, sidelining him from the game, everyone is talking about post-DVT care. Of course, if you're diagnosed with a blood clot that forms in your body's deep veins, your doctor will give you specific instructions to take you through the initial period of recovery. But we don't want you to assume that your work is done once your clot resolves. Because, once you've had one DVT, you're at an increased risk for future clots. Want to lower your risk? Check out these six lifestyle measures that can help prevent DVTs while improving your general well-being.

1. Post DVT Care: Focus on Movement

When you're immobile for extended periods of time, your clotting risk increases. In fact, as this study reveals, regularly incorporating movement into your day can help prevent all forms of venous thromboembolism, or VTE, including DVT and pulmonary embolism. Ready to get started? If you're newer to exercise, try easing into movement with low-impact activities such as walking or swimming. (They can get your blood circulating without placing too much pressure on your body.) And be sure to clear any new exercise routine with your healthcare provider, especially if you're recovering from a serious health condition such as a DVT.

2. Find Your Ideal Weight

Your risk for blood clots increases as your body mass index (BMI) rises, making obesity a DVT risk factor. As such, by making exercise and a diet rich in foods for vein health part of your post DVT care plan, you could reduce your risk for future problems.

3. Quit Smoking

Smoking directly affects the quality of platelets. And, since they are the part of your blood involved in clotting, butting out can keep them healthy and reduce your risk for a future DVT. If you need support with quitting, you can check out these free resources and jump start the process.

4. Travel with Care

If you're planning a long road trip, make sure to pull over frequently so you can get out of your seat and move around. Flying to your destination? Whenever possible, get out of your seat and walk the aisles. Or, when the seat belt sign is illuminated, you can try movements from your seat: roll your ankles; flex and point your toes; bend and extend your legs; and, if possible, alternate bringing one knee into your chest at a time. All of these in-seat exercises can help keep blood from pooling in your legs, reducing your risk for clotting events.

5. Increase Hydration

Dehydration slows blood circulation, increasing your DVT risk. While everyone's needs are different, you should aim to drink Everybody needs different levels of hydration, especially in the warmer months of spring, summer and even fall here in Georgia. So aim for between eight and ten glasses of water a day, but know that you'll need to increase fluid intake if you exercise or spend lots of time out in the sun.

Post DVT Care in Atlanta

After having one DVT, you're more likely to develop another one, so it's important to engage in preventative care. In addition to the lifestyle measures we suggested above, it's important to follow up regularly with our vascular specialists. So, if you're overdue for a check-in, we encourage you to reach out to our team today to request an appointment !