Who is most likely to get a DVT?
• age: people aged over 40 years • previous history: people who have had a previous DVT or PE • existing health problems: recent treatment for cancer, recent surgery, especially on the pelvis, hips or knees • hormonal changes in women: women who are pregnant or have recently had a baby; women who are taking the contraceptive pill or are on hormone replacement therapy (HRT). • inherited risk: people who have an inherited clotting tendency or who have a family history of blood clots Some people do not have any of these risk factors but still develop a DVT, which is why it is useful to know some of the symptoms (see below) so you can seek early advice. What can I do if I am in a high-risk group for DVT? If you know you are in a high-risk group for DVT, you can be more aware of the symptoms of DVT. If you are concerned, do discuss this with your general practitioner (GP). How will I know that I have a DVT? DVT is difficult to diagnose. The symptoms are usually sudden (acute) and may includ
