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Deep Vein Thrombosis - Warning Signs & Prevention

By Tracee Cornforth, About.com

Updated: July 01, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Call your physician immediately if you develop any of the following during treatment for DVT:
  • chest pain,
  • coughing up of blood,
  • continued pain or swelling in the affected area,
  • or if you experience any new symptoms.

Preventing Recurrent DVT

You can help prevent a recurrence of DVT, once you have been treated successfully, by practicing a few simple steps such as avoiding knee socks or other hosiery that may inhibit the flow of blood in your legs; wearing support stockings designed for varicose veins; not crossing your legs or ankles when sitting or lying; raising the foot of your bed to keep your legs elevated during the night; using an ottoman or foot rest during the day to help keep your feet higher than your hips when sitting; and when resting be sure that you keep moving your legs and flexing your ankles and toes.

The good news about deep vein thrombosis is that with early and proper medical intervention, most blood clots resolve without any complications. However, DVT that is left untreated can result in severe complications including death.

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