You may not know much about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), but it’s a condition that’s worth learning more about, and in particular, your level of risk.
It’s easy to assume that DVT is confined to the elderly and the sedentary, but the reality is that almost anyone can be at risk.
In fact, research is emerging that shows men and athletes may face a slightly higher risk than they realize.
Whether you're a weekend warrior, a competitive athlete, or someone who works on their feet all day, understanding your risk factors could prevent a serious health emergency. So, let’s start with the basics.
When a blood clot forms in a deep vein, it’s called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Most blood clots form in the veins of the lower leg, pelvis or thigh, although they can develop in the arms.
These clots can partially or completely block blood flow, causing swelling and pain. Even worse, should a clot break loose, it can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism (PE), which is potentially life-threatening.
According to the NIH, 300,000 to 600,000 Americans are affected each year by Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), a disorder that includes DVT and PE.
Common symptoms of DVT include:
But sometimes there are no noticeable symptoms.
Studies indicate that men have a slightly higher risk of experiencing deep vein thrombosis and PE, especially after an initial blood clot. Furthermore, when men develop DVT, it has a tendency to be more severe and often affects larger veins that are closer to the body’s core (Proximal DVT), such as the femoral vein above the calf.
While the reasons aren’t crystal clear, certain factors linked to male characteristics seem to have a contributory role.
It’s important to know that DVT doesn’t discriminate, and there are several factors shared by men and women alike that increase their risk for DVT. These include:
It seems counterintuitive, right? Athletes are healthy, active, and constantly moving - exactly the lifestyle recommended to prevent clots. But several key factors make athletes (particularly men) more vulnerable than they might think:
A torn ligament, sprained ankle, or post-op recovery period after surgery (like ACL reconstruction) all increase DVT risk, especially if you're immobilized or in a cast.
Many athletes turn to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Advil, to help manage soreness and inflammation caused by rigorous training and competition. However, some research indicates that regular use of these medications may be associated with a higher risk of developing blood clots.
Long flights or road trips to competitions or training camps often involve prolonged sitting, which slows circulation in the legs. Combine that with altitude and dehydration, and you’ve got a perfect storm for DVT risk.
High-intensity training causes micro-inflammation, while dehydration thickens the blood, making it more likely to clot. Add supplements like creatine and blood volume changes further.
The constant, high-impact motion involved in many sports can cause both minor and major tissue damage over time. This repeated strain or bruising may affect blood vessels, potentially raising the likelihood of clot development.
Over the years, several well-known athletes have publicly battled DVT and its complications:
These stories remind us that even peak performance doesn’t provide immunity from vascular conditions.
While you can’t do anything about risk factors such as height, others can be managed with good habits and awareness.
✔️ Hydrate consistently—especially during travel and intense training
✔️ Take movement breaks during long periods of sitting
✔️ Wear compression socks if traveling or recovering from injury
✔️ Avoid overtraining without recovery
✔️ Know your family history of clotting disorders
✔️ Get checked if something doesn’t feel right
And if you’re post-surgical, recovering from an injury, or noticing recurring swelling, don’t wait to seek medical advice.
Staying active is one of the best things you can do for your vascular health—but it’s not a guarantee against conditions like DVT. In fact, some of the very habits that make athletes great, like pushing through pain, ignoring swelling, or flying often, can increase the risk.
If you're experiencing symptoms or simply want peace of mind about your vein health, the team at Mint Stl is here to help.
DVT isn’t just a concern for the inactive—it can affect anyone, even those at the top of their game. If you've noticed unusual leg swelling, pain, or have concerns about your circulation, don’t play through it.
Call Mint Stl today or book a consultation online.
Let’s make sure your vascular health is keeping pace with your lifestyle.
