This year we've seen an alarming 400% to 500% increase of patients presenting with dangerous blood clots in their legs or DVTs. In fact, I've seen more DVTs in the last five months than in my 25 years of vein imaging. We believe this is due to COVID-19 factors. More people are working from home and sitting for long periods of time which greatly increases the risk for blood clots to form in the legs. And, the COVID-19 virus has been found to activate the body's platelet blood clotting mechanism.

Usually we see more of these in older adults who are mobility impaired, but people of all ages are coming in for evaluations when these are discovered-surprise findings to say the least.

If a blood clot in the leg breaks off and travels to the lungs, it is life-threatening. Signs of a DVT are pain, swelling, redness and tenderness in one leg. If you have these symptoms you should seek immediate medical attention. To help prevent blood clots in the legs, be sure to drink plenty of water and walk during the day if you can, even just around the block or your home. And if you are desk bound, do this Calf Pump throughout the day:

1. Plant your feet flat on the floor
2. Lift up your heels, then return to the floor
3. Do this multiple times in a row
4. Repeat every couple of minutes

If you have concerns about your legs we can ultrasound them for you at the clinic. We have sophisticated equipment and software focused specifically on vein pathways in the legs that can detect clots others may miss. Just call for an appointment: 210-622-8000.

Stay safe and well out there,

Dr. John Hogg