When thinking about preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), it is useful to consider the person and activity. For instance a child has a very low risk of deep vein thrombosis no matter what the situation they are in. The older we get the more likely deep vein thrombosis is. Also, different situations put us at higher or lower risk - for instance being operated on under general anaesthetic, having cancer or long haul flights all put us at higher risk of a DVT.

General prevention

For people in general, the simple advice for DVT prevention in normal life can be summarised as:

• keep mobile, avoiding long periods of inactivity
• keep well hydrated, making sure that drinks with caffeine or alcohol in them are balanced with water or juices
• stop smoking
• weigh up the pros and cons of oral contraceptive pill or HRT with your doctor - particularly importantly if you're a smoker

If you have varicose veins, phlebitis or venous eczema:

• get your varicose veins treated using one of the new thermo-ablation techniques (VNUS Closure FAST, EVLA) under local anaesthetic - this will reduce your risk of superficial thrombophlebitis and the risk of propagation of this into a DVT

If you are going on a long-haul flight, or are stuck in a job or lifestyle without much movement:

• wear properly measured and fitted graduated pressure stockings
  consider an aid to make your blood faster in your veins - such as the arogym or circulation booster

If you are in hospital or our long-term bedbound:

• wear thromboembolic disease stockings (TEDS)
  have subcutaneous heparin injections

People who have either a family history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or a strong personal history of several attacks, should see a specialist in thromboses and have blood tests and scans to determine their risk and future management.