Are there alternative treatments for treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

If you are unable to take blood thinners, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure to place a filter within your vena cava, the major vein running through the middle of your body to your heart. This filter will trap a blood clot if it moves toward the heart, where it could block your pulmonary artery and kill you.

Several lifestyle changes may be necessary during treatment. Exercising your calf muscles if you are sitting for long periods during the day can help prevent new blood clots from forming. If you are on anticoagulants your doctor should know about activities that may result in a bruise or cut, as bleeding from even a small injury may not stop. Also watch your intake of vitamin K, found in canola oil and green, leafy vegetables, because vitamin K can prevent anticoagulants from working properly.