Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis & Pulmonary Embolism

Know the Symptoms of DVT and PE

Bluish, purplish, or reddish discoloration of leg or arm

Chest pain-sharp, stabbing; may get worse with deep breath

Unexplained cough, sometimes with bloody mucus

Get Medical Help Right Away!

Hospitalization
Knee or hip replacement
Abdominal or pelvic surgery
Major trauma: auto accident or fall
Nursing home living
Leg paralysis
Older age
Air trips over 4 hours (car, train, bus)
Active cancer
Chemotherapy
Central venous line
Pacemaker
Bone fracture or cast
Birth control pills, ring, patch
Hormone replacement therapy
Pregnancy or recently gave birth
Prior blood clot
Heart failure
Varicose veins
Bed rest over 3 days
Family history of clot
Obesity
Genetic/hereditary or acquired blood clotting disorder
Traveling long distances by plane, bus, or car;
Dehydration (during and after a strenuous sporting event);
Significant trauma;
Immobilization (brace or cast);
Bone fracture or major surgery;
Birth control pills and patch, pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy;
Family history of DVT or PE;
Presence of an inherited or acquired clotting disorder (factor V Leiden, prothrombin 20210 mutation, antiphospholipid antibodies, and others);
Presence of a congenital abnormality of the anatomy of the veins;
May-Thurner syndrome (narrowing of the major left pelvic vein);
Narrowing or absence of the inferior vena cava (the main vein in the abdomen);
Cervical rib causing thoracic outlet obstruction

Take breaks and stretch legs when traveling long distances;
Do heel toe exercises when seated during prolonged travel; get up and walk as frequently as possible
Drink fluids, especially during prolonged travel, preferably water
Know the symptoms of DVT and PE and seek early medical attention if they occur;
Know the risk factors for blood clots;
Know whether you have a family history of blood clots;
In case of major surgery, trauma, prolonged immobility, or when in a cast: ask your doctor whether you should receive DVT prophylaxis and, if yes, for how long.

Resource	PDF/Printable	Key Points
American Heart Association- Circulation Patient Page 2004	Yes	Description of DVT and PE as a public health problem; Prevention strategies including lifestyle changes, mechanical measures, , information on anticoagulants (“blood thinners”) pharmacological options, combined methods. Administration of anticoagulation; Preparing an individualize prevention strategy.
Preventing Venous Thromboembolism While in the Hospital; Produced by Lifeblood: The Thrombosis Charity.	PDF	Provides information about the risk of blood clots while in the hospital, how to identify if you might be at higher risk and explains how you can prevent blood clots as a patient by asking some key questions.
In Flight Fitness	PDF	Describes simple steps you can take to reduce your chance of developing a blood clot before or after air travel. Includes seated exercises, stretches and general prevention tips.