PORTLAND, Ore. & SOUTHWEST WASH. – In recognition of DVT Awareness Month this March 2026, Inovia Vein is working with residents across the Portland metro area and Southwest Washington to raise awareness of the signs, risk factors, and prevention strategies for blood clots in veins, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Serving patients throughout the greater Portland and Southwest Washington region, Inovia Vein is raising awareness about DVT, a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when blood clots form in veins. DVT can lead to serious complications, including clots breaking off and traveling to the lungs, resulting in pulmonary embolism (PE). Furthermore, patients who have had blood clots in their leg veins years prior may later develop the post-thrombotic syndrome, which can lead to varicose veins, skin changes by the ankle, leg swelling, and venous leg ulcers.
“Deep vein thrombosis can affect anyone, but risk increases with immobility, active cancer, or clotting disorders. Early signs include swelling and sharp muscle pain in the leg.” said Dr. Lauren Wikholm, MD, of Inovia Vein. “Blood Clot Awareness Month is an important reminder for people in our community to understand their individual risk factors and not ignore unusual symptoms. Seeking medical care early can make a life-saving difference.”
Risk factors include prolonged sitting or immobility, recent surgery, trauma, pregnancy, obesity, certain medical conditions, and inherited clotting disorders. Symptoms of DVT may include leg swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth or redness, though some individuals experience no noticeable symptoms. Inovia Vein specialists emphasize prevention through regular movement, healthy lifestyle choices and appropriate medical evaluation when needed.
“Prevention and early recognition are essential in reducing the risks of deep vein thrombosis,” said Tristin Accuardi, DNP, FNP-C, of Inovia Vein. “Staying active, moving regularly during travel or long periods of sitting, wearing compression stockings when appropriate, and seeking timely medical evaluation, especially for those with additional risk factors, can significantly decrease the likelihood of serious complications.”
Inovia Vein provides both diagnosis and treatment for DVT as well as a variety of minimally invasive treatments for venous disorders and remains committed to delivering advanced vein care close to home for residents of Portland metro and Southwest Washington.
If you are concerned you might have a DVT, it is prudent to seek medical attention through your primary care provider, other treating physicians, urgent care or the emergency room.
To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-VEIN-DOC or visit www.InoviaVein.com for more information.