Overview

Factor V Leiden is the most common inherited condition causing increased blood clotting. It increases the chances that your blood will form abnormal blood clots that can be dangerous. Clots can form in the veins near your bones that carry a lot of blood (deep veins), a condition called deep vein thrombosis. A clot can travel through the blood to a lung and cause a serious problem called a pulmonary embolism.

Many things can increase the chance of blood clots, including smoking and not being able to walk or move around for a long time. Your treatment may include a medicine (called a blood thinner) that prevents blood clots.

Factor V Leiden is caused by a faulty gene that you inherit from one or both parents. Talk with your doctor about whether other people in your family should be tested for the faulty gene.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• If you take a blood thinner, be sure you get instructions about how to take your medicine safely. Blood thinners can cause serious bleeding problems.
• Let doctors you see know that you have factor V Leiden.
• Wear medical alert jewellery that lists your clotting problem. You can buy it online or at most drugstores.
• Check with your doctor about whether you should use hormone forms of birth control or hormone therapy. These may increase your risk of blood clots.
• Try not to sit or lie down for long periods. If you are in bed at home recovering from an injury or surgery, ask your doctor how often you should move around or do exercises. If you are on a long car trip, stop every hour or so. Get out and walk around for a few minutes. If you are travelling by bus, train, or plane, walk up and down the aisle every hour or so.
• Have a healthy lifestyle.
  • Stay at a healthy weight. Lose weight if you need to.
  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Get at least 2½ hours of exercise a week. Walking is a good choice. You also may want to do other activities, such as running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis or team sports.
  • Do not smoke. It can increase the risk of blood clots. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.