The risk and prevention of deep vein thrombosis
Blood clots, formally known as deep vein thrombosis or deep venous thrombosis (DVT), are more prone to occur among older men and women. However, younger females are also vulnerable – especially during and following pregnancies. Other common risk factors for developing a blood clot include immobility (hospitalization, prolonged sitting), surgery, bone fracture or wearing a cast, birth control pills, rings, and bigger medical conditions such as cancer or inflammatory disorders. Family history always plays a big part in the risk of DVT, in addition to obesity, older age, and smoking cigarettes. At the request of one our readers, we look into some helpful tips to prevent the condition.
Keep moving
For students with exams approaching, studying regimens consist of sitting in the same position for long periods of time. However, remaining in the same position for a long time can cause blood to pool in your legs, which is often the basis of a blood clot when one does occur. Make sure to get up and walk around once or twice every hour, whether you’re at home or in the library. Beyond exams, if you’re planning that big post-semester trip to Cuba or Mexico, or a road trip to Florida, make sure to take breaks from sitting. Walk up and down the plane aisle when it is appropriate to do so, and ensure the road trip has planned pit stops accordingly.
There are a variety of ways to be proactive regarding blood clots, or medically termed as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition that affects numerous amounts of people annually.
Stay hydrated
Water is often the solution for a lot of things. Add preventing blood clotting to the list. Drinking lots of water can lower your risk for the condition, and it’s also known, of course, to keep you healthy.
Be aware of birth control risks
For ladies, taking the pill increases the risk of blood clotting, which only puts more emphasis on choosing the right pill for you. When deciding on the type of birth control, ensure to tell your doctor of any additional risk factors, including a genetic predisposition to clotting, or a family member who may have had a history with DVT in the past. Informing your doctor if you smoke is also significant.
Educate yourself
The most influential factor when it comes to preventing anything is knowing the symptoms. Recognize that pain, swelling, redness, or seeing blue or red skin and bruising are all potential symptoms of blood clots, especially if it’s noticed in one leg. Warmth in and around the skin of the affected area is also a noticeable symptom of DVT. Beyond the physical area, shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heart beat, and coughing up blood are all symptoms that should have you see your doctor.
Proactive is the way to go
If you require surgery, or have an injury that will keep you immobile for a long period of time, talk to your doctor about preventing blood clotting. They will give you suggestions and solutions that will keep your blood circulating, which in turn, will only keep you healthier in the long run.