(HealthDay News) -- Dangerous blood clots can develop if you spend too much time sitting still.

The U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality offers these suggestions to help prevent blood clots:

• Wear loose-fitting socks, stockings and clothing.
• Elevate your legs about 6 inches above your heart when you can.
• If your doctor recommends them, wear compression stockings.
• Move around and change positions frequently. Don't be still for longer than an hour at a time. Exercise as your doctor recommends.
• Limit salt in your diet.
• Protect your legs from injury, and keep them uncrossed.
• Elevate the foot of your bed with books or similar, about 4 inches to 6 inches.
• Take any medication as prescribed by your doctor.