Factor V Leiden is the most common inherited condition that causes an increase in 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. A healthy lifestyle also can lower your risk of a blood clot.
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.
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