Deep Vein Thrombosis

A deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a blood clot that occurs in a deep vein, usually in the legs. It can be caused by inactivity (possibly from travel), an inherited disorder, or external factors. Risk factors include age over 65, family history of DVT, the use of certain oral contraceptives, estrogen therapy, pregnancy, bone fractures, recent trauma or surgery, and malignancy. Smoking is also considered to increase risk of a deep vein thrombosis.

Illustration by Ariana Mygatt for Issue No. 2: Matters of the Heart