Deep vein thrombosis is the condition that is caused by the formation of a blood clot in the blood vessels in the arms, legs or around the waist. If detected early, it can be treated easily; otherwise, it can cause fatalities as there are no obviously visible symptoms.
An estimated 400,000 people in the country are affected each year with blood clots. Sadly, a majority of them are not even aware of it. Various treatment options are currently available, like blood thinners through pills and injections, catheter procedures, and surgeries. However, they are accompanied by risks like bleeding and other complications.
Doctors recommend simple prevention techniques for people to keep blood clots at bay. Some of them include shedding extra weight, regular exercise, hydration and stretching once every hour.
- Physicians suggest that people should adopt healthy practices like checking their blood pressure and sugar levels regularly at the age of 40 and above.
- Quitting smoking can also prevent the development of a blood clot. While interacting with doctors, people must share their family’s medical history, if any.
- People with hypertension are more prone to suffer from DVT. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help them significantly.
- Additionally, people should prevent putting on weight, especially during their retired life as it is difficult to shed extra kilos in that stage. Women who take birth control pills and smoke face higher risks of acquiring DVT at a very early stage in their life.
- People who undergo surgery are at risk of developing a blood clot. It is during the immediate post-surgery stage that they need to be extremely careful to avoid complications like a stroke. During the recuperative period, patients should place their legs at an angle slightly above the level of their heads.
- Mild exercises to keep the ankle, wrists, knee, and elbows in motion should be done.
- While traveling long distances, people should take a break for a few minutes at least every three hours. Even during long-distance flights, passengers should take a quick walk on the aisles at least for 30 seconds. While traveling, wearing loose and comfortable clothing is recommended by doctors.
- Beverages like alcohol and those containing caffeine result in the depletion of vital fluids in the body. Such beverages should be replaced by fresh fruit juices or at least an adequate amount of water.
- Compression stockings, including medical graded ones, are not usually recommended by doctors except in the case of patients who have recovered from a recently treated DVT. Even among recommended cases, it only helps to reduce the risk of a recurring blood clot.
