Do You Have a Family History of Blood Clots? What You Need to Know About DVT

Blood clots are a common problem, and if you suffer from them, you understand the difficulty. A blood clot is what it sounds like: it occurs when parts of the blood thicken and get stuck inside the vein. If you or someone you know has a history of blood clots, here is some information on Deep Vein Thrombosis, along with signs and symptoms to keep top of mind.

What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Often occurring in the legs, Deep Vein Thrombosis is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein of the body. How do they form? Well, if you are immobile for long periods, or you have a history of blood clots, this condition can occur easily. Additionally, if you have had any injuries, especially in the leg or pelvic area, Deep Vein Thrombosis may develop if there is not proper mobility introduced into your regimen.

Are You at Risk?

If you are more likely to form blood clots due to a family history of them, you may be at a greater risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis than those who are not. Be wary of immobility, especially after surgeries. Staying in bed for long periods increases the likelihood of Deep Vein Thrombosis. Even increased estrogen due to taking birth control can put you at risk, so ensure you talk to your doctor before beginning any medications. Make sure to stay as mobile as possible, as this will help with blood flow through the veins and prevent clotting of the blood. Contacting your doctor before you take certain medications is also important, as it will alert your physician of different changes to your regimen.

Know the Signs and Symptoms

Do not take Deep Vein Thrombosis lightly, as it often goes without detection and can be very serious. Stay on the lookout for swelling, pain, tenderness, and redness of the skin, especially after periods of immobility. These problems will occur in the place of the Deep Vein Thrombosis. Any trauma to body parts can also lead to a higher risk of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis. If you begin to feel any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately, and they will assist you accordingly.

Preventative Methods 

If you are worried about Deep Vein Thrombosis, there are preemptive measures you can take to prevent it from developing. The simplest way to avoid this is to exercise, which can be done almost anywhere! Join a gym or enjoy beautiful parks around your home. Steady-state exercise is a great way to work on your physical andmental health. Additionally, compression stockings can help to circulate blood flow if you struggle with that in your legs. Of course, a healthy lifestyle and weight is beneficial to prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis, so try to keep moving as much as possible.

Treatments for PE

For more severe cases, a Pulmonary Embolism may emerge. This is the name for a clot detaching from the veins and traveling to the lungs. It is possible to have a Pulmonary Embolism without having Deep Vein Thrombosis, so being aware of the warning signs could save your life. These include chest pain, coughing up blood, and difficulty breathing, among others. If you are at risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis, you will also be at risk for a Pulmonary Embolism.

Keep in tune with your body and ensure that you see a doctor regularly for a checkup, especially if these signs occur. Treatment for chronic DVT is available!

Stay in Touch with How You Feel

Though it may seem nervewracking or scary, keeping in touch with how you feel is the best way to stay on top of your health. If you begin to notice any symptoms, see your doctor immediately. Those who are at a higher risk should especially monitor their health closely. In doing this, you are ensuring that you will receive the best care for yourself. And if you know anyone who may be at risk, be sure to alert them of the different symptoms and treatment plans available!