Health Tip: Risk Factors for Deep Vein Thrombosis

(HealthDay News) -- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms within a deep vein, most often in the calf or thigh area.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers this list of risk factors that may increase the likelihood of DVT:

• Having had a pulmonary embolism or a previous case of deep vein thrombosis.
• Having had cancer that has spread.
• Having had another vein condition, such as varicose veins.
• Being a smoker.
• Taking estrogen.
• Being pregnant.
• Being obese.