Blood clots can be directly related to other problems such as surgical recovery, accidents, long term immobility, and cancer. About 500,000 people in the United States suffer from strokes annually. Smokers, non-exercisers, and the obese have a higher risk for developing blood clots. People with blood vessel problems, such as varicose veins, hardening of the arteries, vessel injury or surgery, are at risk, as well. Certain diseases like emphysema or clotting disorders of the blood also increase the chance of forming blood clots.
Blood clots are the main sudden cause of heart attack.
Lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of developing blood clots. Cut back on fats and cholesterol in your diet. Schedule regular exercise workouts. Exercise is known to produce substances that can break up clots. Drugs and blood thinners are given for treatment and to prevent more clots from developing.