Common Risk Factors for Developing Blood Clots

Reduced movement from being on bed rest, recovering in hospital, or sitting/lying still for extended periods (including travel via plane or vehicle) slows circulation in the legs and can allow clots to form more easily. 

• Surgical procedures can temporarily affect blood flow and reduce movement while the body is healing. These changes make it easier for clots to form during recovery.
• Serious injuries such as fractures, muscle tears, or deep bruises can damage blood vessels and limit mobility, which may allow clots to develop as the body repairs itself

• Certain cancers and treatments (such as chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy) can increase risks that make blood more likely to clot
• Increased BMI: Weight can affect circulation and is connected to changes in blood clotting, which may contribute to the formation of blood clots.
• Hormones changes, including hormone replacement therapy, use of birth control pills or pregnancy/menopause can increase the likelihood of clot formation. Watch the following video from Thrombosis Canada to learn more about how hormone changes increase your risk of blood clots:

• Smoking: Chemicals in tobacco damage blood vessels, reduce oxygen delivery, and impacts how the body creates blood clots
• Low physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to poor circulation and can contribute to higher clot risk over time

• Age over 60: Age can contribute to changes in the veins, such as weakening of vein valves, and health conditions that are more common with age. Together, these factors can make clots more common after 60.
• Family history of blood clots: Inherited clotting disorders or a close relative with a history of blood clots may increase personal risk