Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis

For many, spring and summer mean it’s time for a vacation.  Long car or plane rides, however, can trigger a serious condition known as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).  DVT is a condition in which a blood clot (a blockage) forms in veins located deep within the leg or the thigh.  If the clot breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream, it can lodge itself in the lung, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE) that can make it difficult to breathe and may even cause death.  Some people are more at risk than others for developing DVT.  Risk factors include varicose veins, blood clotting disorders, pregnancy or recent childbirth, obesity, tobacco use, and heart disease.  People over 40 years old, those who have had recent surgery, or those who are immobile through inactivity or wearing a cast are also more at risk for DVT.  Although a DVT can be asymptomatic, don’t ignore the warning signs of leg pain, swelling, or heat.  Recognizing these warning signs can save you life!

People with DVT in the leg may have little to no symptoms. Cwith DVT in the leg may have little to no symptoms. If you are at risk for DVT and plan on taking a long trip this season, follow these tips to reduce the likelihood of developing a blood clot:

  • Exercise legs every two to three hours to get the blood flowing back to the heart. Walk up and down the aisle of a plane or train, rotate ankles while sitting, and take regular breaks on road trips.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids; avoid caffeine and alcohol.
  •  Consider wearing compression stockings 

Questions or Comments?

We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concern about our services.

Locations

  • Biglerville Foot & Ankle Center

    Address

    23 N. Main St.
    Biglerville, PA 17307

    Monday:

    8:00 am - 6:00 pm

    Tuesday:

    9:00 am - 7:00 pm

    Wednesday:

    8:00 am - 6:00 pm

    Thursday:

    9:00 am - 5:00 pm

    Friday:

    8:00 am - 12:00 pm

    Saturday:

    Closed

    Sunday:

    Closed

  • West Shore Foot and Ankle Center

    Address

    5001 Louise Dr
    Suite 104
    Mechanicsburg, PA 17055

    Monday:

    8:00 am - 4:30 pm

    Tuesday:

    8:00 am - 5:00 pm

    Wednesday:

    8:00 am - 4:00 pm

    Thursday:

    8:00 am - 4:00 pm

    Friday:

    8:00 am - 4:00 pm

    Saturday:

    Closed

    Sunday:

    Closed

  • Londonderry Foot & Ankle Center

    Address

    845 Sir Thomas Court
    Harrisburg, PA 17109

    Monday:

    8:00 am - 7:00 pm

    Tuesday:

    8:00 am - 7:00 pm

    Wednesday:

    8:00 am - 7:00 pm

    Thursday:

    8:00 am - 7:00 pm

    Friday:

    8:00 am - 6:00 pm

    Saturday:

    8:00 am - 12:00 pm

    Sunday:

    Closed

  • Paxtonia Foot & Ankle Center

    Address

    6100 Jonestown Road
    Harrisburg, PA 17112

    Monday:

    7:30 am - 9:00 pm

    Tuesday:

    7:30 am - 6:00 pm

    Wednesday:

    8:00 am - 9:00 pm

    Thursday:

    8:00 am - 9:00 pm

    Friday:

    8:00 am - 6:00 pm

    Saturday:

    8:00 am - 4:00 pm

    Sunday:

    Closed

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