Life after deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) requires careful attention to recovery and prevention. Here are six essential lifestyle tips to manage and prevent future blood clots.

1. Stay Active

• Regular movement increases blood flow in leg veins
• Aim for 1,000-2,000 steps daily during initial recovery
• Progress to 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly
• Try walking, biking, or swimming
• Listen to your body and avoid activities that cause pain

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

• Being overweight triples blood clot risk
• Obesity increases risk fivefold
• Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains
• Choose healthy proteins like legumes, nuts, fish
• Limit processed foods and added sugars

3. Quit Smoking

• Smoking increases platelet activation up to 100 times
• Causes blood vessel inflammation
• Damages heart and lungs
• Increases risk of clots, heart attack, and stroke
• Consult doctor for cessation strategies

4. Plan for Long Flights

• Risk increases on flights over 7-8 hours
• Choose aisle seats for easier movement
• Wear compression stockings
• Walk around hourly
• Book early to secure appropriate seating

5. Stay Hydrated

• Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily
• Prevents sluggish blood flow
• Especially important during long periods of immobility
• Helps maintain efficient blood circulation
• Reduces clot formation risk

6. Manage Stress

• Practice gratitude
• Spend time outdoors
• Try deep breathing exercises
• Consider mindfulness meditation
• Regular stress management reduces inflammation

Individual risk factors vary based on the original cause of blood clots. Follow your doctor's specific treatment plan and medication schedule. Patients with genetic predispositions may need lifelong blood thinners, while those with temporary risk factors have lower recurrence rates.

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