Understanding the Ten Common Causes of Blood Clots

5. Cancer and Cancer Treatments

Cancer patients are more likely to develop blood clots than the average person, especially during treatment. Both cancer and its treatments may increase the blood's clotting ability, which can be dangerous for patients. Also, cancer patients are likely to have long periods of inactivity, such as during chemotherapy treatments or while on bed rest. This combination of risk factors can make blood clots more likely to form. Although there is little that can be done to decrease the risk for cancer patients, it is crucial to monitor signs and symptoms of pain or to swell in the leg or arm and to seek treatment as quickly as possible.