Prevention strategies are particularly important among people who are prone to blood clots. People who are prone to developing blood clots in an artery include those with mitral valve prolapse, enlarged heart, atrial fibrillation or heart failure. The best strategies for preventing blood clots in an artery are to exercise regularly to promote good circulation, to treat other heart-related medical conditions, and to take antiplatelet drugs or anticoagulants as prescribed by a physician.

People who are prone to developing blood clots in a vein include those with varicose veins, obesity, chronic heart failure or habits of staying in one position for long periods of time. During prolonged travel (e.g., by air, bus, train or car), it is important to get up and walk around. If this is not practical, individuals should try to perform leg exercises while seated or standing. If traveling by car, one should try to make frequent rest stops to move the legs. Compression stockings (that reach the waist) are helpful in reducing swelling and improving venous circulation, and may help prevent blood clots. For patients with a history of blood clots in the deep veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or pulmonary embolism, physicians may prescribe low-dose anticoagulant therapy to prevent recurrent clots.

Maintaining a healthy weight and not smoking are equally important. For those confined to a bed or chair, regular movement and stretching is vital. Individuals should avoid sitting with crossed legs and wearing tight garments (e.g., garters or knee-high hosiery) below the waist. 

Whenever a patient undergoes surgery, there is the possibility of blood clot formation during the surgery or recovery period. To reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism, anticoagulants may be prescribed to help prevent blood clots, especially after orthopedic procedures on the hip or knee. After surgery, cuffs that inflate intermittently may be wrapped around the patient’s legs to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Patients scheduled for surgery should discuss their risk factors with their physician. In addition, performing calf and leg exercises before surgery and resuming activity as soon as possible after surgery can be helpful in preventing blood clots.

Finally, there is evidence that the dietary supplement ginseng may reverse the effects of the most popular anti-clotting drug. Patients who are taking anti-clotting drugs should talk to their physician about any dietary or nutritional supplements they are consuming.