What Causes Blood Clots?

Blood clots can form inside a deep vein, most often in the lower leg, when the blood flow is reduced or sluggish due to:³

• Trauma to the veins, which can be caused by
  • Surgery
  • Serious injury
  • Inflammation
  • An immune response

• Prolonged immobility, which may occur following:
  • Surgery
  • Serious illness
  • Prolonged travel or sitting

• A tendency for the blood to clot faster than normal (also called, hypercoagulability), which may be caused by certain blood conditions like factor V Leiden

The risk of developing DVT is nearly eight times higher during hospitalization,⁷ but many patients develop a DVT within the first month following their discharge.⁸ To ensure that all patients are aware of their risk and receive the appropriate treatment throughout recovery, the Coalition is raising awareness about DVT and encouraging movement and stretching as one way to increase blood circulation and help reduce DVT risk. Click here to learn more about DVT Awareness In Motion!

Click here to read and share the Coalition’s informational brochure on the signs, symptoms and risk factors associated with DVT/PE.

Click here to view a video that explains how blood clots and the formation of blood clots.