March is DVT or Deep Vein Thrombosis awareness month.

After a long plane flight or periods of prolonged sitting, some people will notice a swelling in their legs. Cardiologist Brian Arcement explains that this could be a sign of a serious condition. "Deep vein thrombosis is clots forming within the veinous structure of the legs."

Dr. Arcement says that while the symptoms can seem minor, the risk in not treating this condition is a serious one. "The one primary risk of developing clots in the veins, or the clot breaking loose and traveling up to the heart and including one of the major lung arteries, is called a pulmonary embolism and can be fatal."

Dr. Arcement also says that for those at risk, treatment should begin with medication first. "The primary treatment for veinous clotting is a medication called Coumadin, a blood thinner which limits clotting of the blood and prevents stagnate blood from clotting."

Dr Arcement adds that one preventative step could help many people to decrease the chance of a serious condition from forming. "One of the easiest treatments to prevent clotting of the legs is to wear compression stockings. Stiff stockings which provide increased circulation for the veinous system."

Because most people delay getting help when they notice the first signs of swelling in their legs, deep vein thrombosis is often an under treated condition.

Those at greatest risk for DVT include the obese and those with pre-existing medical conditions.