6 Ways To Avoid Deep Vein Thrombosis
6. Get Moving After Surgery
Deep vein thrombosis is the medical term for a blood clot that develops in a deep vein, typically a vein in the lower legs. One of the risk factors for this health concern is not moving regularly. Once a clot forms. the fear is that it will move and create an obstruction in the brain, causing a stroke.
Many people develop deep vein thrombosis after a recent surgery or long-term illness has kept them bed-bound. A sedentary lifestyle causes the blood flow to slow down, which can increase one's chances of developing clots. Always try to start walking as soon as possible after an operation, and be sure to exercise regularly after you recover.
5. Fly Safely
Long flights can be problematic for those at risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It is recommended that travelers get up and take a short walk every two hours. If it is not safe to remove the seat belt, try keeping your toes on the floor while raising and lowering your heels. This will help your blood pump throughout your legs.
Your risk of DVT is also reduced when you stay hydrated on long trips. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol. Elastic compression socks can also promote blood flow when you are not able to move freely.
4. Take Prescriptions As Instructed
To prevent deep vein thrombosis, some prescriptions have to be started or stopped before you undergo a surgical procedure. Many patients take blood thinners before surgery to prevent blood clots from developing, while others stop taking some of their regularly prescribed medications because they may increase the patient's risk of DVT.
Regardless of the prescriptions you are taking, it is best to follow your doctor's instructions. If the physician says to start, stop, or modify your dosage it is very important that you listen.
3. Manage Your Weight
Obesity is also a risk factor for deep vein thrombosis. The pressure that the extra weight puts on the pelvis and legs increases one's chances of developing a blood clot. People who are overweight or obese should make some lifestyle changes to improve their health and reduce their risk of DVT.
You can start by choosing healthier foods and following strict portion control guidelines. It is also important to find a fitness routine that works for you. Connecting with another person or group of people who are trying to lose weight too is another good way to shed those extra pounds.
2. Stop Smoking
It is no secret that smoking is responsible for a number of health problems, but you may not know that some of those problems can increase your risk of developing deep vein thrombosis. One particular concern when it comes to DVT is high blood pressure. No only can smoking cause high blood pressure, but it can also raise it even higher in people who were already struggling.
Smoking also damages the body's circulatory system and decreases blood flow. This lack of circulation makes the blood more likely to clot. Many people have successfully quit smoking after trying the nicotine patch or gum. Others have slowly reduced the number of cigarettes they smoke each day until they no longer need any at all.
1. Exercise Throughout The Day
People who are on bed-rest are not the only ones who live sedentary lifestyles. Many healthy people, such as those who work in offices, often end up sitting still all day long. Some of these people do squeeze in some exercise after work, but that is not always enough. The problem with sitting still all day is that it restricts blood flow to the legs, which is one of the leading causes of deep vein thrombosis.
The number one way to avoid DVT is to make sure you move throughout the day. You can set an alarm on your phone or computer to remind you to take a short walk every hour or two. It is also helpful to stretch periodically and avoid sitting with your legs crossed.