Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. It is caused by slow blood flow, lack of movement, or damage to the vein wall. Symptoms include leg pain, swelling, shortness of breath, and chest pain. DVT is treated with anticoagulant drugs to prevent blood clotting and sometimes surgery. Most people recover with treatment early on, but permanent vein damage can lead to varicose veins. Prevention methods include wearing compression stockings, not smoking, avoiding sitting for long periods, and taking blood thinners if prescribed. Estimates suggest DVT affects 300,000 to 600,000 people in the US each year and causes