HOUSTON — KHOU 11 News is taking a closer look at deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, a serious condition doctors say becomes more common this time of year — especially with increased holiday travel.
Medical experts warn that long periods of sitting during road trips or flights can significantly raise the risk of developing a blood clot, but they say early warning signs are often overlooked and treatment options have advanced in recent years.
What is DVT and why travel matters
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, most commonly in the legs.
“The, increase in travel is a huge risk. So, we see DVT increase around the times of holiday travel, especially around this time of year. Risks, if you will, that can lead to the development of DVT. The first is stasis. That’s where your blood just isn’t moving. So either you’re in like a long plane ride, a long car ride. Second is injury,” said Khaled Khalaf, an interventional cardiologist with Vital Heart and Vein…