Deep vein thrombosis can happen to anyone, though long periods of inactivity (like long-haul flights or bed rest), surgery, pregnancy, and certain medications can increase your risk. Sometimes a DVT can occur without noticeable symptoms, but when they do appear, they come with specific warning signs.
Here is a closer look at what is actually happening inside the vein when a clot forms:
Key insight: Clots often form around the one-way valves inside your veins. When blood pools or the vein wall is damaged, red blood cells get trapped in a sticky “fibrin mesh,” creating a blockage.
