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As we grow older, our blood flow tends to slow down. Our veins also become weaker, which makes it easier for hidden clots to form, especially in the legs
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If someone in your family has had deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or a pulmonary embolism, your chances go up too. Genetics do play a strong hand in this
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Some cancers, and even their treatments, can make the blood clot more easily. This raises the risk of developing DVT, a dangerous type of clot in deep veins
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Conditions like varicose veins damage the valves inside your veins. When blood flow slows down in such areas, clots are more likely to form and go unnoticed
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Tobacco doesn’t just harm your lungs, it thickens the blood and damages vessel linings. With less oxygen and sticky blood, your chances of clots silently go up
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Birth control pills, hormone therapy, and pregnancy can raise the level of clotting agents in your body, especially if you already have other risk factors in play
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As the uterus grows, it puts pressure on your leg veins. This slows down circulation, especially in late pregnancy, and can lead to swelling and clot risks
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Carrying extra weight strains your veins, particularly those in your legs and pelvis. The more pressure there is, the harder it is for valves to do their job properly
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Some people are born with conditions that make their blood clot easily. These genetic traits don’t always show up early, but can quietly increase risk over time
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Breaking a leg or undergoing joint surgery (like hip or knee replacements) can slow down blood flow during recovery. Add long bed rest to the mix, and clot risk goes up fast