Causes

You are at increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) if you:

• have been immobile (sitting or laying down) for long periods of time
• are over 60 years of age
• have had surgery lasting longer than 60 minutes
• have a history of DVT in the family
• are overweight
• have cancer, heart failure or respiratory problems
• are taking HRT or an oestrogen-based contraceptive pill

Symptoms

Symptoms of DVT include:

• pain and tenderness below the knee
• stiffness and aching in the calf or thigh
• leg swelling
• changes in skin colour

Symptoms of PE include:

• sudden shortness of breath
• chest pain which is made worse even on shallow breathing