Recovering from a blood clot—whether it was a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or a pulmonary embolism—is no small feat. But once you’ve made it through the worst, the next big question is: how do you keep it from happening again?The truth is, if you’ve had a clot before, you’re at a higher risk for another. That might sound alarming, but the good news is that there are effective ways to reduce your risk—and it all starts with understanding what increases the chances of a recurrence.
What Can Trigger Another Blood Clot?
Blood clots form for many different reasons. Some of the most common triggers include:
Recent surgery
Prolonged immobility (like being on bed rest or sitting for hours while traveling)
Obesity
Pregnancy
Taking birth control pills or hormone therapy
Inherited clotting disorders
If your blood clot was caused by a temporary factor like surgery or trauma, your chances of having another are typically low. But if the clot happened spontaneously—without an obvious cause—the likelihood of recurrence can be as high as 30% over the next decade.
How to Lower Your Risk of Another Clot
Your doctor will likely have a personalized plan to help keep you clot-free, but the following lifestyle tips can also play a major role in prevention:
1. Move More, Sit Less
Inactivity is one of the leading contributors to blood clots. When you’re sedentary, blood tends to pool in your lower legs—especially in the deep veins—making clot formation more likely.Regular movement is key. Walk daily, try gentle biking or swimming, or practice yoga. If you’ve recently had a clot, ask your healthcare provider what level of physical activity is right for you.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess body weight puts extra pressure on your veins and increases inflammation, insulin resistance, and abnormal clotting—all of which raise your risk for DVT. Keeping your body mass index (BMI) in a healthy range can make a big difference in preventing future clots.
3. Avoid Tobacco
Smoking is a major risk factor for blood clots. It damages blood vessels, increases inflammation, and makes platelets stickier, which promotes clotting. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about quitting strategies—it’s one of the best steps you can take for your vascular health.
4. Prevent Clots While Traveling
Long flights can be a hidden danger for people prone to DVT. To lower your risk while flying:
Wear compression socks
Choose an aisle seat so it’s easier to move
Walk the aisle every hour
Do foot circles and flex your calves while seated
5. Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water helps keep your blood flowing smoothly. Aim for 8–10 glasses of water daily, especially when you’re traveling or spending time immobile.
6. Manage Stress
Chronic stress isn’t just bad for your mental health—it can also raise your blood pressure and inflammation levels, both of which contribute to clot risk. Manage stress with deep breathing, time outdoors, hobbies, or simply unplugging from devices.
7. Follow Your Medication Plan
If you’ve been prescribed a blood thinner (anticoagulant), take it exactly as directed. Skipping doses or stopping medication too soon could lead to a dangerous clot forming again.
8. Keep Up With Doctor Visits
Routine check-ups matter. Your doctor will monitor your recovery, adjust medications if needed, and catch any new health concerns early. Make sure all your healthcare providers know you’ve had a blood clot—especially if you’re being considered for hormone therapy or cancer treatment.
Final Thoughts
While having had a blood clot puts you at higher risk for another, it doesn’t mean you’re powerless. With the right lifestyle changes and medical guidance, you can significantly reduce your chances of recurrence. Stay informed, stay active, and stay connected to your healthcare team.Dr. David Samadiis the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer, Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.
