By Ryan
It’s important that you understand as much as possible about your body so that you can take control of your health. One common problem in the United States that doesn’t get addressed nearly enough is blood clots. These clots can happen for a number of reasons, from surgery to medication. Because of this, everyone should understand blood clots, where they come from, and what they can do.
1. Blood Clots Start Most Often in the Leg
While a clot can form anywhere, it is most common that the clot forms in the legs. The lower leg and the thigh generally have a slower blood flow. In addition to this, when you’re sitting for long periods, the blood in your legs can pool, causing a clot. This is important to note, because if you have any risk factors, it’s important to make sure you’re getting up and walking around, allowing the blood to flow regularly. If your leg becomes tender, red, and swollen, it is possible that you have a blood clot. In addition, the leg may become warm to the touch.
2. Anyone Can Get a Clot
Most people ignore information about blood clots because they don’t think that it will happen to them. It’s crucial that everyone understand that it is possible to get a blood clot, even if you don’t have any of the risk factors. While there are some conditions and medications that can cause a higher risk for blood clots, these are not the only reasons they happen. Some of the traditional risk factors include:
- A personal or family history of blood clots
- Cancer
- A genetic disorder
- Obesity
- Certain medications, such as birth controls can cause clotting
- Surgery
It’s too easy to fall into the thought trap that you are safe from blood clots because you are not part of the risk factor groups. However, it is possible for anyone to get a blood clot at any time. While the risk increases with age and other factors, a young adult in good health can still suffer from a clot.
3. Deep Vein Thrombosis can be Treated
If you have been diagnosed with Deep Vein Thrombosis, or DVT, you can buy Lovenox online. This medication helps treat DVT, along with other recommendations from your doctor. Deep Vein Thrombosis is a serious condition where blood clots build up in the deep veins of the body. It is important to realize that the blood clots that are formed due to DVT can break loose, causing a blockage of blood flow, or other serious problems.
4. Steps to Prevent Blood Clots
“There are steps that you can take that will help prevent blood clots in the body. One easy thing to do is to take a baby aspirin each day. However, it is always important to check with your doctor before starting an aspirin regimen. In addition to aspirin, it’s important to stay active. This allows the blood flow to keep going. If you work at a job that has you sitting the majority of the day, or if you travel frequently, make sure that you get up and move around regularly to ensure proper blood flow. Medical professionals with degrees for family nurse practitioners also recommend staying hydrated. You should be drinking at least eight glasses of water per day.”
5. Blood Clots can Lead to Pulmonary Embolism
When you have DVT and have a blood clot breaks free, it can lead to pulmonary embolism. This is an artery in the lungs being blocked. It is difficult for a pulmonary embolism to be diagnosed, because the symptoms are similar to symptoms of other serious conditions, such as heart attacks. Some of the symptoms include:
- Rapid heart rate
- Rapid breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Sharp, sudden chest pain
- Light-headedness
While these are not all of the symptoms, they are indications that you may want to get checked out. If you are aware that you have a clot and experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to check in with your doctor.
Blood clots are a serious condition that everyone should be aware of. Make sure that you discuss preventative methods with your doctor. This will help keep you healthy and safe.
*Image via Flickr by Austin White