Sedentary lifestyle

People leading sedentary lifestyles are more likely to have complications brought on by a general lack of physical care. Prolonged bouts of sitting or lying down strains the cardiovascular system as it works to pump blood through the body. Extended periods of sitting can actually crease your intestines and put crimps in your organs; patients who spend the majority of time lying down are subject to ulcers forming on their skin, known as bed sores. The risk of a pulmonary embolism increases as the lower extremities struggle to get fresh blood, while the old, oxygen-poor blood thickens and begins to clot.

If you find you are sitting for long periods of time, it’s important to elevate your legs periodically to promote healthy blood flow. Doing even minor exercises such as basic leg lifts, arms curls or using tension balls to increase the heart rate is vital to protecting yourself from blood clots.