VTE Prevention: Quick Tips to Keep Blood Flowing

Ever wonder why a long flight or a leg injury can lead to a painful clot? The answer lies in how blood moves (or doesn’t move) through your veins. When flow slows, tiny clumps can form and turn into a dangerous blockage called a venous thromboembolism (VTE). The good news is that you can dramatically cut that risk with a few easy habits.

Know Your Risk Factors

First, figure out if you’re in a higher‑risk group. Age over 60, recent surgery, cancer, or a history of clotting already put you on the radar. Pregnancy, hormonal birth control, and obesity add extra pressure, too. Even something as simple as sitting still for hours—think marathon Netflix sessions or cross‑country drives—can tip the scales.

If any of these sound familiar, keep a mental note. Knowing the red flags helps you act before a clot forms.

Everyday Actions That Reduce Clot Risk

Now for the practical stuff you can do right now:

Move every hour. Stand up, stretch, or walk for a couple of minutes. On a plane, walk the aisle or do calf‑raise exercises while seated. Those tiny muscle squeezes push blood back toward your heart.

Stay hydrated. Dehydration thickens blood, making clots more likely. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day, and carry a bottle when you travel.

Wear compression socks. Graduated compression socks gently squeeze your legs, encouraging circulation. They’re cheap, comfortable, and especially useful on long trips.

Maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight puts pressure on your veins, slowing flow. Even modest weight loss can lower clot risk noticeably.

Talk to your doctor about medication. If you’re undergoing major surgery or have a known clotting disorder, doctors often prescribe low‑dose anticoagulants (blood thinners) for a short period. Don’t start or stop any medication on your own—always follow professional advice.

For people who sit at a desk all day, set a timer for 55 minutes of work followed by a 5‑minute stretch break. Make a habit of calf raises: lift your heels, hold for a few seconds, and lower. It’s a tiny movement with big payoff.

Traveling abroad? Pack a pair of compression socks, a refillable water bottle, and a reminder on your phone to move. Even a quick walk down the airport corridor every few hours helps.

Lastly, listen to your body. Sudden swelling, pain, or warmth in a leg can signal a clot forming. If that happens, seek medical help immediately. Early treatment can prevent a clot from traveling to the lungs—a condition called pulmonary embolism that can be life‑threatening.

VTE prevention isn’t about drastic lifestyle overhauls. It’s about small, consistent actions that keep blood moving. Identify your risk, stay active, hydrate, and talk to your healthcare provider when needed. Follow these steps, and you’ll give your veins a solid chance to stay clear and healthy.