What are the risks associated with blood clots. How can you naturally prevent blood clots from forming. What lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of developing blood clots. Why is staying active crucial for preventing blood clots. How does hydration affect blood clot formation.

Understanding Blood Clots: Friend or Foe?

Blood clots are gel-like clumps of blood that have transitioned from a liquid state. While they can serve a beneficial purpose in certain situations, they can also pose significant health risks. Here’s what you need to know:

• Beneficial blood clots form in response to injuries, plugging damaged blood vessels to stop bleeding.
• Harmful blood clots can form inside veins without apparent reason and may not dissolve naturally.
• Potentially dangerous blood clots require immediate medical attention, especially if located in the legs, lungs, or brain.

Is it possible to distinguish between beneficial and harmful blood clots on your own? The short answer is no. If you suspect you have a blood clot, it’s crucial to seek medical advice promptly rather than trying to determine its nature yourself.

Recognizing the Dangers: When Blood Clots Become Life-Threatening

Blood clots can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening. Understanding the risks and potential complications is essential for timely intervention:

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT occurs when blood clots form in deep veins, typically in the legs. Symptoms may include:

• Swelling
• Pain
• Redness of the skin

Pulmonary Embolism

A pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot breaks off and travels to the lungs. Symptoms may include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Painful breathing
• Lightheadedness
• Increased heartbeat
• Chest pain

Who is at risk for developing blood clots? While blood clots can affect anyone at any age, certain factors increase the risk:

• Recent surgery
• Hospitalization
• Pregnancy
• Cancer and some cancer treatments
• Family history of blood clots

7 Natural Strategies to Prevent Blood Clots

While there are no guaranteed “natural remedies” for blood clots, several lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of developing them:

1. Stay Active Throughout the Day

How does remaining sedentary affect blood clot formation? Prolonged periods of inactivity can cause blood to pool, increasing the risk of clot formation. To counteract this:

• Set a timer to remind you to move every 30-60 minutes
• Perform simple exercises or stretches at your desk
• Take short walks during breaks

2. Incorporate Regular Exercise into Your Routine

Do you need to engage in intense workouts to prevent blood clots? Not necessarily. Moderate, consistent exercise can be highly effective:

• Aim for at least 30 minutes of walking daily
• Consider low-impact activities like swimming or cycling
• Gradually increase intensity and duration as your fitness improves

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

How does excess weight contribute to blood clot formation? Extra pounds can increase pressure on your veins, potentially leading to clot formation. To reduce this risk:

• Adopt a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
• Practice portion control
• Combine healthy eating with regular exercise

4. Take Precautions When Traveling

Why is travel associated with an increased risk of blood clots? Prolonged periods of sitting, especially during long-distance travel, can impede blood circulation. To minimize this risk:

• Take regular breaks to stand and walk around during car trips
• Perform in-seat exercises during flights
• Wear compression stockings for added protection

5. Stay Hydrated

How does hydration affect blood clot formation? Proper hydration helps maintain blood viscosity, reducing the risk of clot formation. To ensure adequate hydration:

• Drink water regularly throughout the day
• Increase fluid intake during travel, especially air travel
• Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, as they can contribute to dehydration

6. Take Extra Care During Pregnancy

Why does pregnancy increase the risk of blood clots? Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect blood clotting factors. To mitigate this risk:

• Stay active with pregnancy-safe exercises
• Wear compression stockings if recommended by your healthcare provider
• Discuss any concerns or symptoms with your obstetrician

7. Elevate Your Feet While Sleeping

How can sleep posture affect blood circulation? Elevating your feet while sleeping can promote better blood flow and reduce the risk of clot formation in the legs. Try these strategies:

• Use a pillow or wedge to elevate your feet slightly above heart level
• Consider an adjustable bed frame for optimal positioning
• Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice

The Role of Diet in Blood Clot Prevention

Can certain foods help prevent blood clots? While no single food can guarantee protection against blood clots, a balanced diet rich in specific nutrients may support vascular health:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

How do omega-3 fatty acids affect blood clotting? These essential fats have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of abnormal clotting. Good sources include:

• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
• Flaxseeds and chia seeds
• Walnuts

Vitamin E

What role does vitamin E play in blood clot prevention? Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and may help prevent platelets from sticking together. Include these vitamin E-rich foods in your diet:

• Almonds and sunflower seeds
• Avocados
• Spinach and other leafy greens

Flavonoids

How do flavonoids contribute to vascular health? These plant compounds have been associated with improved blood flow and reduced clot formation. Good sources include:

• Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• Citrus fruits
• Dark chocolate (in moderation)

Recognizing Blood Clot Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention

How can you identify potential blood clot symptoms? While not all blood clots cause noticeable symptoms, being aware of warning signs can lead to early intervention. Watch for:

• Unexplained swelling, especially in one leg
• Redness or warmth in the affected area
• Pain or tenderness, particularly when standing or walking
• Sudden shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Rapid heartbeat
• Coughing up blood

When should you seek immediate medical attention? If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they occur suddenly or in combination, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency care.

The Importance of Professional Guidance in Blood Clot Prevention

Why is it crucial to consult with a healthcare provider about blood clot prevention? While natural strategies can be effective, individualized medical advice is essential, particularly for those at higher risk. A healthcare professional can:

• Assess your personal risk factors
• Recommend appropriate preventive measures
• Prescribe medications if necessary
• Monitor your health and adjust strategies as needed

How often should you discuss blood clot prevention with your doctor? For individuals with known risk factors, annual check-ups should include a discussion about blood clot prevention. However, don’t hesitate to bring up concerns at any time, especially if you experience potential symptoms or plan to undertake activities that may increase your risk (such as long-distance travel or surgery).

Emerging Research in Natural Blood Clot Prevention

What new developments are on the horizon for natural blood clot prevention? While established strategies remain crucial, ongoing research is exploring additional approaches:

Herbal Supplements

Can certain herbs help prevent blood clots? Some studies suggest potential benefits from herbs like ginkgo biloba and garlic. However, it’s important to note:

• Research is ongoing, and results are not conclusive
• Herbal supplements can interact with medications
• Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen

Mindfulness and Stress Reduction

How might stress affect blood clot risk? Chronic stress can contribute to inflammation and other factors that may increase clot formation. Emerging research is exploring the potential benefits of:

• Meditation and mindfulness practices
• Yoga and tai chi
• Biofeedback techniques

While these approaches show promise, they should be viewed as complementary to established preventive measures rather than replacements.

Technology and Blood Clot Prevention: Tools for Awareness

How can technology assist in blood clot prevention? As wearable devices and health apps become more sophisticated, they may offer new ways to monitor and manage blood clot risk:

Activity Trackers

Can fitness trackers help prevent blood clots? While not specifically designed for this purpose, activity trackers can:

• Encourage regular movement throughout the day
• Monitor sleep patterns and quality
• Provide reminders to stay hydrated

Specialized Apps

Are there apps designed specifically for blood clot prevention? Some developers are creating apps that:

• Assess individual risk factors
• Provide personalized prevention strategies
• Offer educational resources about blood clots

While these technological tools can be helpful, they should not replace professional medical advice or regular check-ups with your healthcare provider.

Building a Comprehensive Blood Clot Prevention Plan

How can you create an effective, personalized strategy for blood clot prevention? By combining natural approaches with professional guidance and emerging research, you can develop a well-rounded plan:

1. Assess your risk factors with a healthcare provider
2. Implement lifestyle changes (activity, diet, hydration)
3. Consider appropriate natural supplements under medical supervision
4. Utilize technology to support your efforts
5. Stay informed about new developments in blood clot prevention
6. Schedule regular check-ups to monitor your vascular health

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to blood clots. By taking proactive steps and staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk and maintain optimal vascular health.

How to Naturally Prevent Blood Clots

Reviewed by: Dr. Satish Vayuvegula

There is no sugar-coating it: blood clots are serious business.

Whether they are in your legs, or somewhere potentially deadly like your lungs, blood clots are something you want to be aware of, and know the warning signs of. By being aware of blood clots, you may be able to prevent them from becoming major problems. You may even be able to prevent them from happening in the first place!

If blood clots are a concern of yours, read on to find out ways that you can prevent them.

What are Blood Clots?

Most people hear the word “blood clot” and immediately think of danger. While that is sometimes the case, some blood clots are surprisingly good for you.

As shared by the Mayo Clinic, blood clots “are gel-like clumps of blood” that have left the liquid state. In this state, blood clots can actually be beneficial, as it means they are “form[ing] in response to an injury or a cut, plugging the injured blood vessel, which stops bleeding. ”

However, people are right in thinking that the word “blood clot” can also mean danger because, as the Mayo Clinic also states, “Some blood clots form inside your veins without a good reason, and don’t dissolve naturally. These may require medical attention, especially if they are in your legs or are in more critical locations, such as your lungs and brain.”

In short, it’s always better to err on the safe side and if you find yourself suffering from a blood clot, don’t wait to find out whether it’s a good kind or a bad kind — get yourself to a vein specialist ASAP.

Schedule your consultation today

Risks and Dangers of Blood Clots

Why is it so important that you don’t waste time when blood clots are involved?

For one, blood clots can get quite uncomfortable. Blood clots that happen in deep veins are called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). While DVT can happen without any symptoms attached to it, oftentimes people experience swelling, pain, and a redness of their skin. That may be enough to get you to the doctor, but if not, then the potential that the clot breaks off and travels to your lungs should be enough. When that happens, it’s called a pulmonary embolism, and you’ve got yourself in a life-threatening situation.

And what has the potential to put you at risk of blood clots?

According to the CDC, “blood clots can affect anyone at any age, but certain risk factors, such as surgery, hospitalization, pregnancy, cancer and some types of cancer treatments can increase risks.” Also, having a family history of blood clots can increase a person’s risk.

Thus, if any of these risks sound like they could be you, keep your eyes peeled for signs of a blood clot, including:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Painful breathing
• Lightheadedness
• Increased heartbeat
• Chest pain
• Weakness or numbness in face, arm or leg
• Difficulty speaking
• Vision changes

How You Can Prevent Blood Clots Naturally

Though there are no “natural remedies” for blood clots, there are some natural ways and lifestyle changes you can make to lower your risk of developing the clots.

Stay active.

Remaining sedentary for long periods of time can cause your blood to pool, which can lead to clots. Make it a point to get up every 30 minutes – 1 hour and move to get your blood flowing.

Regular exercise.

You don’t need to run 5 miles to keep your blood clots in check. Simply walking at least 30 minutes a day is a great way to keep your circulation moving.

Lose weight.

Blood clots can happen due to weight gain, and the additional vein pressure that occurs with extra pounds on your body. By losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight, you alleviate some of that pressure on your veins and keep your clot risk lower.

If traveling, be extra cautious.

According to the CDC, “anyone traveling more than four hours, whether by air, car, bus, or train, can be at risk for blood clots.” In order to avoid these issues from happening, it is important you talk to a vein specialist if you think you’re at risk of blood clots. Additionally, take breaks during your travel to stand up and walk around to get your blood flowing. Stretch out your calves, flex your ankles and, as suggested by many airlines, pull your knees up to your chest and hold it there for around 15 seconds, repeating up to 10 times.

Drink water.

Staying hydrated is essential for a number of health reasons, but especially so when traveling. Flying is dehydrating due to the air on the plane, and that coupled with sitting for long periods of time when traveling can lead to blood clots.

If pregnant, keep moving.

Blood clots can be a result of the hormone changes brought on by pregnancy, so to help combat that, it is important to keep your leg muscles contracting to help blood circulate. The best way to healthily do this is by walking.

Keep feet raised when sleeping.

We hope you’re able to get a solid 7-8 hours of sleep a night, as it’s necessary for your health. However, that is time that you are sedentary and may suffer some clot issues. To help prevent that from happening, try elevating your legs while you sleep to keep your circulation going.

Watch for signs.

Be on the lookout for signs of blood clots that we mentioned above and contact your VCA vein specialist as soon as you feel something is wrong.

5 Home Remedies for Blood Clot and Natural Treatment

Blood is the most important fuel required by the body as it helps in transporting nutrients to the cells and ensures smooth functioning of the system by supplying oxygen to various organs of the body. However, you may sometimes develop blood clots that can clog the arteries, further blocking the supply of nutrients to the vital organs. Blood clots are simply amalgamation of red blood cells that build up at the site of injury or due to a particular ailment. In some cases it can be healthy as it stops excessive bleeding in the body, however excessive clotting can be a sign of severe health problems like Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). In simpler terms, blood clot is a blockage of a healthy vessel that may lead to various health problems. A mass of red blood cells clump together and stop the blood flow in the vessel. Blood clots may not just form in one part of the body and can occur any where. Here are some amazing home remedies for blood clot. 
 

Blood Clot Symptoms

Blood clot symptoms may depend on where the clot may be located. Here are the various symptoms of blood clots in different areas of the body-

• Heart- heaviness and pain in the chest, sweating, shortness of breath and discomfort in the upper area of the body
• Lung- sharp chest pain, racing heart, sweating, coughing up blood and shortness of breath
• Leg or arm– excessive pain, swelling, warm feeling in the affected area and cramps
• Abdomen– abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting
• Brain– vision issues, difficulty in speaking, severe headache and dizziness

Blood Clot Causes

Blood clots may be caused due to plaque formation in the arteries, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart diseases, cholesterol, internal injuries, obesity, liver diseases, smoking or anemia.  
 

Blood Clot Home Remedies and Natural Treatment

According to Nutritionist and Macrobiotic Health Coach Shilpa Arora, you must avoid inflammatory foods like white breads, cakes, pastries, cookies, refined oil and refined flours. All these foods tend to aggravate inflammation in the body, further causing blood clots.
 

Here are some home remedies for blood clots that you could probably try. 

1. Turmeric

The active compound present in turmeric known as curcumin works on the blood platelets to prevent clots. Its medicinal properties can also help in curing the pain caused due to the formation of clots. The bio-active properties of turmeric are said to be attributed to various components isolated from its rhizome. Turmeric acts as an anti-thrombotic or anti-coagulant agent, which involves modulation of numerous factors that aid in the process of clot formation. (Also Read: 5 Home Remedies to Control High Levels of Uric Acid)

_{The active compound present in turmeric known as curcumin works on the blood platelets​}2. GarlicAccording to Nutritionist Shilpa, garlic has sulphur compounds that are known to melt blood clots. Consume one raw garlic clove in the morning for effective results. Garlic works on the smooth muscles of the arteries and causes them to relax and dilate, thereby lowering blood pressure. It also works as a blood thinner, thereby preventing blood clots in patients at risk for clots. 
 

_{Garlic has sulphur compounds that are known to melt blood clots​}3. CayenneCayenne peppers are natural blood thinners and have an effective impact on your body due to the presence of salicylates in them. The compound capsaicin present in cayenne helps promote smooth blood circulation and helps prevent blood clots. The compound helps clear away artery-narrowing lipid deposits, and might help dilate arteries and blood vessels to clear away clots and the pain that comes with them. (Also Read: 7 Foods To Increase Blood Platelets)

_{Cayenne peppers are natural blood thinners and have an effective impact on your body​}4. Arjun ki ChhaalAccording to Nutritionist Dr. Simran Saini from Fortis Hospital, Arjun ki chhaal or Terminalia Arjuna is a very effective natural blood thinner. All you need to do is take Arjun ki chhaal (bark) and soak it in warm water and drink the water every morning. Arjun ki chhaal promotes a stronger contraction of the heart muscle, allowing the heart to function efficiently. (Also Read: How To Improve Blood Circulation?)

_{Arjun ki chhaal or Terminalia Arjuna is a very effective natural blood thinner​}5. Flax Seeds and Chia SeedsThese tiny seeds are full of healthy omega-3 fatty acids that help in preventing blood clots and improve blood circulation. Flaxseeds are said to make platelets, the blood cells involved in clotting, less sticky. In fact, these seeds may reduce the risk of hardening of the arteries. Chia seeds are known to be natural blood thinners. They come packed with essential nutrients, especially omega-3 fatty acids that are good for the heart.  
(Also Read: 6 Summer Foods For Managing Blood Pressure)

_{Omega-3 fatty acids rich seeds are found in seeds including flax seeds}A good diet can go a long way in keeping you hale and hearty naturally. 
 

5 Home Remedies for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Natural Treatment

Blood clots are a seen as a common problem these days, considering our sedentary lifestyle and the long hours we spent sitting glued to our seats which can affect the smooth flow of blood in the body. The basic causes of blood clot formation may include sitting at one place for long hours, internal injury or a family history of blood clots. Usually blood clots go away on their own and in some cases, they may require treatment but if the situation worsens it may lead to Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT. DVT is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more veins located deep inside your body. It may usually occur due to a leg injury gone bad. Here’s a handy guide to DVT, its causes and symptoms and home remedies that offer relief. Deep vein Thrombosis or DVT is a condition where blood clots form in veins deep inside the body causing disruption in the flow of blood.The clots are generally formed in your thighs or lower legs, however, can develop in other areas in the body too. Deep Vein Thrombosis can become a serious condition as these blood clots in your veins can break loose, travel through the bloodstream and lodge in your lungs, blocking the blood flow. Generally, conditions like DVT are seen in people above 40, but if you have a family history of the condition, you should be careful and consider regular checkup.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Symptoms

Deep Vein Thrombosis may have certain symptoms that one shouldn’t ignore as it may get worse with time. Here are some symptoms to look out for before visiting a doctor-

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Causes
 

Blood clots are generally caused by anything that prevents the blood from circulating properly. There may be various causes of blood clots causing DVT that you should look out for such as side effects of medications, limited movement, injury to a vein, pregnancy, health issues like cholesterol, stomach issues and if you have a family history of the condition.
 

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Home Remedies and Home Treatment

 
While DVT may be a serious health condition, it can be treated.

There are certain home remedies for DVT suggested by Wellness Expert Sagar Arya that can be used to reduce the symptoms of DVT –

 
1. GingerApart from being an excellent healing spice, ginger plays an important role in treating deep vein thrombosis. It is an effective medicine to break down the fibrins that cause DVT and further helps in smooth movement of blood. According to Nutritionist Sagar, drink ginger tea at least two to three times a day. It can help prevent high cholesterol that causes plaque buildup further inhibiting blood circulation. (Also Read: 5 Home Remedies For Blood Clot And Natural Treatment)_{It is an effective medicine to break down the fibrins that cause DVT}2. Vitamin E rich foodsVitamin E rich foods like walnuts, spinach, sunflower seeds, olive oil, bell peppers and kiwis help the blood to flow smoothly. Vitamin K is known to thicken the blood promoting the formation of clots; hence, vitamin E acts as anti-coagulant for the veins. Include more green leafy vegetables, spinach, mustard greens, fish, liver, eggs and cereals in your diet. (Also Read: 5 Blood Thinning Foods To Reduce Blood Clots)_{Vitamin K is known to thicken the blood promoting the formation of clots}3. Cayenne pepper
 
Cayenne pepper is known to be a natural blood thinner that helps in treating DVT. The compound capsaicin present in cayenne promotes smooth blood circulation and helps prevent blood clots. Apart from this, it also helps normalize blood pressure and reduces cholesterol levels that may be a cause of blood clots. Make sure you do not eat cayenne pepper without consulting a doctor. 
 _{Cayenne pepper is known to be a natural blood thinner that helps in treating DVT​}4. Garlic ClovesGarlic is a known ingredient that promotes blood circulation and helps you get rid of all the effects of DVT. According to Nutritionist Sagar, one clove a day can actually help reduce the signs of DVT. It is known to be anti-thrombotic, which helps in preventing blood clots in patients at the risk of clots. Eating raw garlic first thing in the morning is said to be quite effective for many people. 
 _{Garlic is a known ingredient that promotes blood circulation}
 
5. Cinnamon
 
Cinnamon has a natural anticoagulant called coumarin that helps in lowering blood pressure as well acts as a blood thinner promoting blood circulation and preventing blood clots. Cinnamon’s blood thinning properties can help deep vein thrombosis patients manage blood clotting by acting as an anti-clotting agent. Drinking cinnamon water is super-beneficial for over-all, as per various health experts. Do not regard this as a sole measure for alternative healing in blood clotting. 
 _{Cinnamon has a natural anticoagulant called coumarin​}While all the natural remedies and treatments for DVT are effective, you shouldn’t completely rely on them. Consult a doctor before switching to the natural remedies. Also it is imperative to exercise regularly, at least for 15-30 minutes to ensure regular movement of the body and good blood circulation.

Reduce Blood Clots | Try These Lifestyle Changes

If you suffer from frequent blood clots, here are a few simple lifestyle changes you should consider.

Your blood naturally clots to prevent from excessive bleeding. Unfortunately, some clots can become so large that they constrict your veins allowing pressure to build up, which can cause significant damage to your circulatory system. If a clot enters the bloodstream, it can result in more serious complications, including deep vein thrombosis, stroke, or pulmonary embolism.

While most blood clots don’t pose an immediate threat to your health, if you experience frequent clotting, there are a number of simple lifestyle changes that you can make to help alleviate your symptoms.

Eat Healthy

When it comes to circulatory health, there’s a whole lot of truth to the old adage, “You are what you eat.” Here are a few dietary tips to help keep clotting to a minimum:

Drink plenty of water. Dehydration causes your blood to thicken, thereby increasing the likelihood that it will clot.

Drink moderate amounts of red wine or grape juice. In addition to eating five to seven servings of fruits and vegetables a day, studies have shown that purple grapes, kiwis, and virgin olive oil help prevent blood clots from forming.

Incorporate natural blood-thinners such as garlic, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne peppers into your diet.

Limit your consumption of animal fats, which can increase inflammation and have a generally negative effect on cardiovascular health.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity helps improve circulation throughout your body, preventing blood from pooling in your veins. It also reduces the likelihood of diabetes, obesity, and other significant risk factors. Here are a few simple ways to promote good blood flow and circulatory health:

If your job involves remaining seated for long periods of time, be sure to get up and move around at least once every two hours.

Perform foot and leg exercises in the morning to encourage blood flow through the legs.

Walk, jog, bike, swim, or perform some other kind of moderate exercise on a regular basis.

A predisposition to blood clots is certainly inconvenient, but with the proper lifestyle choices and medical guidance, it’s a condition that can be easily managed. If you’re struggling with blood clots and would like to learn more about your treatment options, contact a specialist today.

How to Get Rid of Blood Clots and Reduce Your Future Risk

• To get rid of blood clots, you’ll likely need a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. 
• Blood clots are usually treated with blood thinners, but in rare cases, you may need a surgical removal of the clot.  
• You can reduce your risk of blood clots by improving circulation and keeping your blood flowing: frequent physical activity and wearing compression stockings can especially help get rid of clots. 
• This article was reviewed by Jason R. McKnight, MD, MS, a family medicine physician and clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M College of Medicine. 
• This story is part of Insider’s guide to Heart Disease. 

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If you’ve been diagnosed with a blood clot — especially dangerous types like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) — your doctor will recommend a treatment plan depending on the size and location of the clot.  

Here’s what you need to know to get rid of blood clots and how to reduce your risk of getting another one. 

How to get rid of blood clots 

If your doctor deems the clot low-risk, they may opt to monitor it and see if it will dissolve on its own over time. “Our bodies do an incredible job of getting rid of blood clots themselves,” says Stanislav Henkin, MD, who practices cardiovascular medicine at the Heart and Vascular Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. 

However, patients with blood clots that are blocking a deep vein (DVT) or that present a danger of coming loose and traveling to the heart are treated with anticoagulant medications, known as blood thinners. These keep the clot from getting bigger and stop new clots from forming. 

The most well-known blood thinner is warfarin (commonly known as Coumadin). People on this medication need to avoid certain medicines and foods, including alcohol, garlic, and cranberries, and they’ll also need regular blood checks. Newer blood thinners, called direct oral anticoagulants, have fewer side effects and don’t require on-going blood monitoring. 

Both types can be effective: for every 15 people taking these blood thinners, one clot will be prevented. However, they also carry risks. About one in 87 people on blood thinners will experience a serious bleed. If you are on blood thinners and start bleeding you should go to the hospital, where you may be be given a reversal drug to stop the bleeding. 

In very rare cases, patients might need a surgical thrombectomy, or surgical removal of the clot. This is usually reserved for extremely sick patients, like those on a ventilator who develop a blood clot in the lungs (PE), says Henkin. 

How to reduce your future risk of blood clots 

People who have had one blood clot are at increased risk for further clotting: about 22. 9% of people will experience another clot in the four years following the first. But there are a few ways to prevent clots from occurring.

Boosting circulation with regular physical activity can reduce your risk of blood clots by up to 39% in women and 22% in men. It’s also important to keep the blood flowing, especially if you’re sitting still for long periods of time. Henkin says you should move around as much as possible during long flights or car rides. 

Finally, wearing compression stockings can reduce your risk of developing DVT. Compression stockings apply pressure to your legs in order to promote the flow of blood back toward your heart. 

As with exercise, stockings can help keep blood circulating, which reduces the risk of clots forming. There are medical and non-medical options for compression stockings, and your doctor can suggest which is right for you.

11 Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Blood Clots In The Leg

If you notice a painful, swollen, reddish-blue skin discoloration on any of your legs, the chances are that you have a blood clot. Some clots are usually immobile and not of much concern. But in some other cases, if the blood clot happens to break free and travel to your heart or lungs, it may lead to a medical emergency. Hence, it is important to nip this problem in the bud to avoid complications. Read on to find out more about blood clots, their causes and symptoms, and how you can get rid of them using natural remedies.

In This Article

What Is A Blood Clot?
What Causes Blood Clots In The Leg?
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of A Blood Clot In The Leg?
How To Get Rid Of A Blood Clot In The Leg Naturally
Preventive Tips

What Is A Blood Clot?

A blood clot is a lump of semi-solid blood that is often seen following an injury. Your blood is made up of cells like platelets and plasma proteins that help in the formation of clots to prevent loss of excess blood from your body. Blood clotting or coagulation is a significant process that is of great help, especially in times of physical trauma. However, blood clots also have the potential to become life-threatening if they are formed in your veins or organs like the heart and lungs (1).

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What Causes Blood Clots In The Leg?

As mentioned earlier, in some cases, a blood clot can be formed inside any of your veins. This condition is referred to as deep vein thrombosis (2). Such clots are a common occurrence in the legs. They can also occur in the heart, brain, lungs, or in the pelvic region. Some of the most common causes of a blood clot in the legs are:

• Damage to one of the veins on your leg due to a physical trauma
• Interrupted blood flow
• Hypercoagulability: A condition where your blood is more likely to clot than usual
• Prolonged sitting or immobility
• Surgery: If you underwent surgery recently, you have an increased chance of developing a blood clot.
• Physical trauma to your lower body.
• Weight: If you are overweight or obese, you are at a higher risk of developing blood clots in your legs.
• Medical conditions: Varicose veins, vasculitis, heart attack, respiratory defects, or even a recent conception or childbirth can lead to a blood clot in the vein of your leg.
• Age: Older people are at higher risk of developing blood clots.
• Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC): This is a medical condition that causes the blood to clot inappropriately due to an infection or organ failure.

All of these factors may contribute to the formation of a blood clot in the leg. A clot can further cause other changes in your body. The appearance of any of the following signs and symptoms in your body is an indication of a blood clot in your leg.

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What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of A Blood Clot In The Leg?

The signs and symptoms associated with a blood clot are usually a result of obstructed blood flow and inflammation in the area of the clot. Some of them are as follows.

• Swelling around the area of the clot. If the clot is big, you may notice swelling in your entire leg.
• Subsequent onset of pain in the area of the clot
• Inflammation or redness
• A warmth around the clot
• Increased pain in the leg while trying to bend it
• Leg and calf cramps
• Reddish-blue or whitish discoloration of the skin on the affected area

The intensity of the symptoms may vary from person to person. But irrespective of that, it is highly recommended to treat any clot in the leg as soon as you notice its appearance. The remedies mentioned here can help you in treating the blood clot in your leg naturally.

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How To Get Rid Of Blood Clots In Legs Naturally

1. Essential Oils
2. Epsom Salt
3. Garlic
4. Green Tea
5. Oregano
6. Vitamin E
7. Turmeric
8. Cayenne Pepper
9. Ginger
10. Yoga
11. Diet

Home Remedies To Treat A Blood Clot In The Leg

1. Essential Oils

a.

Anise Oil

What You Need

• 2 to 3 drops of anise essential oil
• 1 glass of water

What You Have To Do

1. Mix a few drops of anise essential oil in a glass of water and consume immediately.
2. Alternatively, you can massage anise oil on the affected leg.

How Often You Should do This

Do this 2 to 3 times daily.

Why This Works

Anise oil is extracted from a flowering plant called anise. It has a variety of medicinal uses and is antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and a muscle relaxant. Thus, anise oil can be used to reduce pain and improve blood flow to treat the blood clot in your leg (3).

b. Helichrysum Oil

What You Need

• 5 to 6 drops of helichrysum essential oil
• 30 ml of any carrier oil like coconut or olive oil

What You Have To Do

1. Mix the essential oil with the carrier oil.
2. Massage this blend into the affected area on your leg.

How Often You Should do This

Do this at least thrice daily.

Why This Works

Helichrysum oil is derived from the medicinal herb, helichrysum. It has many health benefits and is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a natural blood thinner due to its anticoagulant properties. Thus, helichrysum oil is one of the best options to treat the blood clot in your leg.

c. Wintergreen Oil

What You Need

• 5 to 6 drops of wintergreen essential oil
• 30 ml of any carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil

What You Have To Do

1. Mix wintergreen essential oil with a carrier oil of your choice.
2. Massage this blend on the affected leg.

How Often You Should do This

Do this twice daily.

Why This Works

Wintergreen oil contains a compound called methyl salicylate. Methyl salicylate is well known for its blood thinning properties and anti-inflammatory properties (4). Therefore, wintergreen oil can be helpful in treating the blood clot in your leg.

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2. Epsom Salt

What You Need

What You Have To Do

1. Add Epsom salt to your bath water.
2. Soak and relax in your bath for 20 to 25 minutes.

How Often You Should do This

Follow this regimen once daily.

Why This Works

Epsom salt is also referred to as magnesium sulfate. It is known to improve blood circulation and prevent hardening of blood clots. It is also anti-inflammatory. These properties of Epsom salt can help in the treatment of the blood clot in your leg (5), (6).

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3. Garlic

What You Need

• 3 to 4 garlic cloves
• 1 cup of hot water
• Honey (optional)

What You Have To Do

1. Crush the garlic cloves and add it to a cup of hot water.
2. Allow it to steep and consume before it turns cold.
3. You can also add honey for flavor.

How Often You Should do This

For best results, drink this tea 3 to 4 times daily.

Why This Works

Garlic is known for its immense health benefits. It contains two organosulfur compounds called allicin and ajoene. These compounds give garlic its anti-thrombotic properties, which can help in treating your blood clot (7), (8), (9).

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4. Green Tea

What You Need

• 1 teaspoon green tea extract
• 1 cup of water
• Honey (optional)

What You Have To Do

1. Add green tea extract to a cup of water and bring it to a boil.
2. Consume this before it turns cold.
3. You can also add honey for flavor.

How Often You Should do This

Drink this tea at least thrice daily.

Why This Works

The antioxidant properties of green tea are no secret. A few studies have found that green tea can also help prevent blood clots. It also exhibits anti-thrombotic properties and can help in treating blood clots (10), (11).

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5.

Oregano

What You Need

500 mg supplements of oregano

What You Have To Do

Consume oregano supplements on a daily basis.

How Often You Should do This

Do this at least 4 times daily for optimum results.

Why This Works

Oregano has a number of benefits associated with it. In addition to being a natural antioxidant, it also exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Oregano is also found to inhibit platelet aggregation and can hence be used in the treatment of blood clots (12).

[ Read: 26 Amazing Benefits Of Oregano ]

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6. Vitamin E

What You Need

400 mg Vitamin E capsules

What You Have To Do

Consume Vitamin E capsules on a daily basis.

How Often You Should do This

You must consume this once daily.

Why This Works

Vitamin E mainly consists of a group of eight fat-soluble vitamins called tocopherols and tocotrienols. Vitamin E is mainly used for its antioxidant and mild anticoagulant properties, which help in the treatment of blood clots (13), (14).

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7. Turmeric

What You Need

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 glass of warm milk

What You Have To Do

Add turmeric to a glass of warm milk and consume immediately.

How Often You Should do This

Do this 1 to 2 times daily.

Why This Works

Turmeric is a natural antioxidant and is used in treating a variety of skin ailments. It contains a compound called curcumin that is responsible for its numerous benefits. Curcumin also displays anticoagulant properties and can, therefore, be used in treating the blood clot in your leg (15), (16), (17), (18).

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8. Cayenne Pepper

What You Need

450 mg cayenne pepper capsules

What You Have To Do

Consume cayenne pepper capsules before your meals.

How Often You Should do This

You must do this at least twice daily.

Why This Works

Cayenne pepper has a high amount of salicylates. These salicylates have powerful blood-thinning effects and can be used to treat the blood clot in your legs (19).

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9. Ginger

What You Need

• 1 inch of peeled ginger
• 1 cup of hot water
• Honey (optional)

What You Have To Do

1. Allow the ginger to steep in hot water for 15 minutes.
2. Let it cool. Consume this healthy tea immediately.
3. You can also add honey for flavor.

How Often You Should do This

You must drink this tea 2 to 3 times a day.

Why This Works

Ginger contains a compound called salicylate. A very popular blood thinner called acetylsalicylic acid is derived from this compound. Thus, ginger can be a potential treatment for blood clots (20), (21), (22).

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10. Yoga

What You Have To Do

Do some yoga asanas such as Uttanasana and Virabhadrasana I.

Uttanasana is a standing forward bend pose and mainly involves bending from your hips. You must continue to descend slowly until you are able to touch your feet. Following this, slowly bring your palm to the back of your ankles and stand in the same position for 30 seconds to 1 minute. For more information about this asana, click here.

Virabhadrasana I requires you to keep your legs about 3 1/2 feet apart. You must then bend one knee and stretch your other leg to the maximum. Stretch your hands above you until you lift your entire ribcage from your pelvis. Hold this position for 30 seconds to 1 minute. For more information about this asana, click here.

How Often You Should do This

Do this every morning.

Why This Works

Yoga is extremely beneficial in keeping your mind and body healthy. The asanas mentioned here will help in stretching your legs and encourage blood circulation. This, in turn, prevents the formation of blood clots in your legs (23), (24), (25).

[ Read: 5 Best Yoga Poses To Get Rid Of Leg Muscle Pain ]

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11. Diet

Including some foods in your diet may help in blood thinning and treating existing blood clots (26), (27). You can follow a diet having the following foods to speed up your recovery.

• Vegetables like broccoli, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions
• Fruit juices like pineapple juice, strawberry juice, cranberry juice, mulberry juice and grape juice
• Nuts such as walnut, almonds, pine nuts, cashews, and pistachios
• Fish such as mackerel, tuna, and salmon

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Prevention is always better than cure. Following a healthy diet and making some positive lifestyle changes will reduce the chances of recurrence of the blood clot. You can follow the preventive tips mentioned below along with the remedies to help the blood clot heal faster.

Preventive Tips

• Keep a check on your weight and BMI
• Avoid activities that involve prolonged periods of inactivity
• Get up and walk every couple of hours if you have been sitting or lying down at a stretch
• Elevate your legs every once in a while to promote blood flow
• Exercise

Now that you know how to get rid of blood clots in legs naturally, what are you waiting for? Following the remedies and tips mentioned here could help you deal with the blood clot. Also, you must continue to follow the preventive tips even after your condition is treated to avoid its recurrence. If your discomfort or symptoms prevail despite these treatments, consult your physician immediately to avoid further complications.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you know if you have a blood clot?

If there is a discolored patch of skin on your leg coupled with pain and swelling, there is a high chance that you have a blood clot in your leg. Also, any swelling associated with a blood clot does not go away even on icing it.

How does a blood clot in one’s leg feel?

A blood clot is usually reddish blue or pale in appearance. The affected area is also warm to touch and becomes painful subsequently.

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Shaheen holds a postgraduate degree in Human Genetics and Molecular Biology. She is a Geneticist with proficiency in Biotechnology, Immunology, Medical Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Genetic Counseling. Her passion for writing and her educational background have assisted her substantially in writing quality content on topics related to health and wellness. In her free time, Shaheen loves to explore the world and the different flavors/cuisines it has to offer. Photography is another hobby she has developed of late.

5 Ways To Prevent A Blood Clot in the Future

Charlie Horse or Blood Clot

Several years ago, my brother developed what he initially described as a “Charlie horse” in the back of his right leg. He had just returned from skiing in Colorado so he assumed that he must have injured himself at some point on the trip. The leg soreness lingered, however, and within a couple days, he noticed some mild swelling around his right ankle. He went to see a local orthopedic doctor, thinking he may have pulled a muscle. The doctor immediately ordered an ultrasound of the veins in his legs which showed a large blood clot, also known as deep vein thrombosis, or just DVT. The doctor started my brother on a blood thinner and within several days, he started to feel better, but he was still surprised and confused by his diagnosis.

My brother is a young, healthy, and physically active guy. He has no chronic diseases and takes no regular medications. Nobody in our family had ever gotten a blood clot, that we know of, and all of his genetic tests came back normal. So how did this happen?

The answer was over our heads…literally.  When my brother returned home from Colorado, he took a 3-hour flight wherein he relaxed and enjoyed a couple cocktails. He spent hours in a seated position, knees bent at a 90-degree angle, breathing in dry air in a low-pressure environment. These factors combined to have a concentrating effect on his blood, making it thicker and more sluggish inside his veins. This slow-moving blood eventually started to solidify which resulted in a clot. This phenomenon is common enough that is has been referred to as “Traveler’s Thrombosis.”

What exactly is a blood clot?

A blood clot is a clump of blood cells, particles, and proteins that become inflamed and stick together to form a solid or semi-solid mass. This mass, or thrombus, can block the flow of blood through a vein causing a back-up of blood behind that point. Some blood clots break loose and travel through the veins to other areas of the body like the heart or lungs. These clots are called emboli and can cause serious health complications and even death.  

So what could my brother have done to avoid developing a blood clot?

5 Ways to Prevent a Blood Clot

Hydration

Adequate hydration is important in avoiding the development of a blood clot. My brother’s strenuous exercise on the mountain, coupled with the fact that he rarely stops for water breaks, likely caused some degree of dehydration even before he stepped on the plane.   Drinking alcohol during the flight would have only dehydrated him more. He would have been better off just drinking water and saving the cocktails for home.

Nutrition

A lot of my patients ask about foods and supplements they can take to prevent blood clots and improve circulation. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough research on this topic for me to make those kinds of claims. I see them on other websites, but at best, eating things like cold-water fish (or taking an Omega 3 supplement) or avoiding foods high in saturated fat may promote better circulation and thereby give you a marginal edge in preventing blood clots. So, for now at least, my brother gets a free-pass in regards to his subpar diet on this trip. For more information on this topic, see my blog post about natural remedies to improve circulation, which is different than just preventing blood clots.

Compression

Compression socks are another useful tool to avoid development of a blood clot.   My brother should have been wearing graduated, knee-high compression socks throughout the duration of his flight. Compression socks help prevent the pooling of blood that occurs when we are either seated or standing for prolonged periods of time.

Medication

Although my brother was never prescribed a “blood-thinner” prior to his DVT, some people are and taking those medications as prescribed is obviously critical in avoiding the formation of a blood clot. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have questions about whether you should take blood thinners like over-the-counter aspirin or prescription medications.

Exercise

Finally, exercise and movement are important ways to help avoid blood clots. Yes, my brother had been very active in the days leading up to his fateful flight, but once he sat down on the plane, he almost completely stopped moving his legs.  Deep veins of the legs rely largely on muscle contractions to force blood out of the legs and send it back to the heart for re-oxygenation.   Obviously, we can’t always be walking about, which is particularly true if you’re on an airplane. But we can flex our ankles and knees, and if you paid for the extra leg room, you may even be able to stretch. I tell my patients to pretend they are pressing and releasing the brake pedal on their car. And don’t be shy about taking an extra trip to the airplane bathroom if it gets you another walk down the aisle.

These same tactics can be used outside of an airplane, too. Get up and take a walk around your office if you’ve been sitting at your desk for more than an hour. Make a few laps around the couch if you’re in the middle of bingeing your favorite TV series. When that ceremony, service, or meeting creeps into its second hour, discreetly “pump the brakes” to keep your blood moving. And in general, regular aerobic exercise reduces the risk of blood clots by improving overall circulation and whole-body health.

Now to be fair, not all blood clots are completely preventable. There’s a chance that my brother still would have gotten a DVT, even if he had taken all of my advice. But hydration, compression socks, and exercise are still your best tools to avoid developing a blood clot.

If you are concerned about developing a blood clot, or if blood clots run in your family, talk to your healthcare provider about ways to identify and reduce your risk of clotting. If you suspect you have a blood clot, seek medical attention immediately as some clots can cause life-threatening complications.

90,000 10 foods and drinks to thin the blood and prevent thrombosis

Until the doctor prescribed anticoagulants, the most common spices, vegetables and fruits are suitable for prevention.

The root of this plant reduces the risk of platelet clumping. And gingerol, polyunsaturated fatty acids Omega-3 and Omega-6 fight with excess cholesterol in the blood vessels.

Ordinary warm water is immediately absorbed and thins the blood. Scientists from the Loma Linda University of California have found that water-based drinks – tea, coffee, juices – do not have such an effect, and even vice versa. So the recommendations to drink at least five glasses of water a day are more relevant today than ever.

Cayenne pepper

It is a natural substitute for aspirin because it contains the very salicylates that make it a first aid drug for blood thinning.

When seasoned with raw garlic, the dish requires less salt.Another plus of garlic is the prevention of atherosclerosis. The fewer formations inside the vessels, the more freely the blood circulates.

Another preventive spice. Curcumin, like garlic, normalizes blood cholesterol levels. But, unlike him, it does not have a burning taste and bright smell.

It also contains curcumin, albeit in a lower concentration. Place the bag of this spice in a prominent place and add to your favorite drinks or desserts.

Three to four fresh tomatoes a day is enough. Salicylates – derivatives of salicylic acid, affect blood platelets, preventing them from sticking together. The effect of strengthening the circulatory system is complemented by vitamin C and lycopene.

Fruit drink from fresh berries, fragrant tea from dry leaves will lower cholesterol levels and prevent atherosclerosis.

Natural antioxidants help the body to strengthen immunity, reduce inflammation and strengthen the cardiovascular system.

Vitamins A and C and coumarins fight blood clots.

A sufficient amount of clean water, various seasonings, berries and fruits in your diet will allow you not to worry about the danger of thrombosis. The main thing is to observe the measure and not neglect the advice of a specialist.

90,030 90,000 Doctors told how to prevent the appearance of blood clots in blood vessels

There is a very high risk of developing thromboembolism in women. “All cancers increase the risk of blood clots and thromboembolism. Pregnancy leads to the risk of thrombosis, because the fetus is a physical obstacle to the outflow of venous blood, “said Pryadko.

In addition, the use of hormonal contraceptives is also a high risk of blood clots. “Unfortunately, our gynecologists, who prescribe hormonal contraceptives, do not even inform their patients about it, although it is written in the annotation, but people also rarely read the annotations to drugs here,” the doctor added.

Men have a higher risk of thrombosis during long flights.”For example, a famous Russian tennis player developed a thrombosis after a long flight. The same thing happened with half of the composition of one famous football team, which often made long flights,” said Pryadko. If a person travels for a long time in a train or in an airplane, you need to change your posture, move your legs.

Prevention of varicose veins – these are compression stockings or knee-highs. “They are shown to a person who makes a long trip by road, rail or plane. If the trip in the car is more than three hours, anyone must wear compression hosiery, “he said. In Switzerland, for example, two pairs of compression hosiery are issued by the health system free of charge.

Special vegetables and fruits

According to the head of the clinical diagnostic department of the Semashko Central Clinical Hospital No. 2 of JSC Russian Railways, vascular surgeon and chief cardiologist of JSC Russian Railways Alexei Zudin, the risk of thrombus formation is reduced by foods that are rich in vitamin K – broccoli and spinach.”This should be remembered for people who are at risk of thrombosis. There has been research that lingonberries and citrus fruits are also good at reducing the risk of thrombosis,” said the cardiologist.

According to him, some physical activity increases the risk of developing varicose veins, for example, weightlifting. And sports such as running, swimming and cycling, on the contrary, are good for blood vessels.

Anatoly Pokrovsky, President of the Russian Society of Angiologists and Vascular Surgeons, Head of the Department of Vascular Surgery at the Vishnevsky Institute of Surgery, said that in the 50s of the last century, a study was conducted on the development of cardiovascular diseases in the British and Finns.”The composition of the food seems to be the same. But in England, a leaf of green lettuce is always placed in a dish, but in Finland this is not. And they concluded that vegetables, which should be at every meal, are of great importance,” the doctor said. …

He believes that the emphasis should not be on what people eat, but on the weight of a person.

Do blood thinners (anticoagulants) prevent blood clots in people hospitalized with COVID-19?

COVID-19 usually affects the lungs and airways, however, in addition to respiratory problems, about 16% of people hospitalized with COVID-19 have problems with blood and blood vessels, which leads to the formation of blood clots (thrombi) in the arteries. veins and lungs.These blood clots can break off and travel through blood vessels to other parts of the body, where they can block blood vessels, leading to heart attacks or strokes. Nearly half of people with severe COVID-19 in intensive care units may develop blood clots in their veins or arteries.

What are blood thinners?

Blood thinners are medicines that prevent blood clots. However, they can cause unwanted effects such as bleeding.Some guidelines recommend giving blood thinners the first time people with COVID-19 are admitted to the hospital to prevent blood clots, rather than waiting for clots to appear and then treating them with blood thinners.

What did we want to know?

We wanted to know if the prophylactic use of blood thinners in people hospitalized with COVID-19 reduces the number of deaths compared to people who did not receive them or received a placebo. We also wanted to know if these people needed less breathing support, did they still have blood clots, if they were bleeding, and if they had other adverse events (such as nausea, vomiting, kidney problems, and amputations).

What have we done?

We searched for studies evaluating blood thinners used in people hospitalized with COVID-19 to prevent blood clots.Studies could be of any design as long as they compared one blood thinner to another blood thinner, or no treatment, or a placebo (dummy). The studies could be conducted anywhere in the world, and participants could be of any age, as long as they were in a hospital with a confirmed COVID-19 disease.

Search date: June 20, 2020.

What We Found

We hoped to find randomized controlled trials (RCTs).In RCTs, participants are randomly assigned to either receive the study treatment or a comparable treatment (other treatment, no treatment, or placebo). RCTs provide the best evidence.

We did not find any RCTs, so we included seven non-randomized “retrospective” studies that looked at previous treatments in 5929 people. These studies were conducted in intensive care units, hospital wards and emergency departments in China, Italy, Spain and the United States.They provided data on death and bleeding, but there was no data on respiratory support, blood clots or other adverse effects. Because the clinical trials were too different from each other, we were unable to combine the results.

Blood thinners versus no treatment (6 studies)

– One study reported a reduction in mortality, while another reported a reduction in mortality only among seriously ill people.There were no differences in mortality rates in three studies, and in the remaining studies there were no deaths in any of the groups.
– One study reported major bleeding in 3% of participants who received blood thinners and 1. 9% of participants who did not receive blood thinners.

Therapeutic dose of blood thinners compared to the prophylactic dose (1 study)

All participants were mechanically ventilated in the intensive care unit.They may or may not have blood clots, but were given blood thinners, either at the dose usually used to treat blood clots (higher dose) or the dose used to prevent blood clots (lower dose). 90,030 – This study reported a lower mortality rate among people who received the treatment dose (34.2%) compared to people who received the prophylactic dose (53%). 90,030 – In this study, 31.7% of participants who received the treatment dose reported major bleeding, compared with 20.5% among people who received the prophylactic dose.

Strength of Evidence

We do not know if blood thinners are a useful preventive measure for people with COVID-19 because we are very uncertain about the evidence. None of the studies randomized participants, and they were all retrospective. In addition, they reported differing results and did not fully present their methods. This means that our confidence (certainty) in the evidence is very low.

What’s next?

Our searches found 22 ongoing studies, 20 of which were randomized, involving 14,730 people. We plan to add the results of these studies to our review when they are published. We hope that these higher quality studies will provide a convincing answer to the question in our review.

Blood for control and nutrition without “green”. Doctor On How To Live With Thrombosis | HEALTH: Events | HEALTH

Thick blood is a dangerous phenomenon.The risk of thrombosis increases, which is fraught with serious complications, even fatal. Is it possible to avoid an ailment, what foods should be included in the diet to improve blood clotting, how to properly take medications for thrombosis? AiF-Yug was told about this by cardiologist Inna Belan.

“You need to know the dose”

Cardiovascular events are leaders in the structure of total mortality. But, unfortunately, the population is poorly informed that thrombosis is the founder of the development of the most common diseases: heart attack, stroke and thromboembolism.

“What is a thrombus and how is it formed? When a blood vessel is damaged, the body naturally tries to heal the “wound” to prevent blood loss. To do this, he uses the blood cells – platelets and fibrin, – says the doctor. – Together they form a clot – a thrombus, which closes the site of injury. However, if the clotting processes are impaired, blood clots can form even in healthy vessels, without damage, and cause arterial or venous thrombosis.Therefore, prevention of the development of thrombosis is necessary both before the development of the disease, and if it occurs. ”

Some diseases require constant intake of antiplatelet and anticoagulants. Accordingly, it is necessary to control the blood coagulation system. The INR or International Normalized Ratio is a vital indicator of blood clotting that must be measured at least once a month. Untimely adjustment of the dose of the drug can lead to serious complications: bleeding or, conversely, thrombosis of the prosthesis.It is important that patients understand the mechanism of action of a particular drug, know its side effects, remember the first harbingers of possible complications. After all, only the dose allows the medicine to remain the medicine.

Therefore, if a person taking anticoagulants is involved in an accident, falls down a ladder, or has another serious injury, you should immediately seek medical help.

When to see a doctor

Warfarin is an anticoagulant drug that reduces blood clotting and increases bleeding time.It is prescribed for a high risk of thrombus formation, with a mechanical prosthesis of the heart valve, atrial fibrillation (“atrial fibrillation”), deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, thrombosis of the heart cavity, blood vessels. It cannot be administered independently. Taking the drug requires strict INR control.

Today, there are different ways to control this analysis: from the usual in the clinic to the express method at home. A portable device will help keep a blood test under control not only at home, but even in transport.Do not be afraid of these seemingly complex drugs and prescription regimens. If you understand what benefits the medicine brings, and what harm can be from uncontrolled intake, a person is protected.

To reduce the risk of bleeding, the INR should remain at individually defined values. Minor bruising or increased bleeding of the gums, prolonged bleeding from a cut or menstruation, may occur with anticoagulants. But any serious injury is fraught with prolonged bleeding.A closed injury may not be noticed at all.

“Therefore, if a person taking anticoagulants is involved in an accident, fell down a ladder or has another serious injury, you should immediately seek medical help,” continues Inna Belan. – If you notice black (tarry) stools, pink or red urine, profuse bleeding from the nose or gums (including when brushing your teeth), excessively heavy or prolonged discharge during menstruation, large bruises or swelling on the body that occurs without visible reasons, if there are unmotivated shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, chest pains, as well as severe weakness, dizziness or impaired speech and vision, numbness or impaired movement of one or more limbs, severe abdominal pain or unbearable headache, an urgent need to go to the doctor ” …

Since 2014, at the initiative of the International Society for Thrombosis and Hemostasis, World Thrombosis Day is celebrated in October, including in Russia. The date is timed to coincide with the birthday of Rudolf Virchow, the founder of the pathophysiology of the thrombus formation process.

Less green products

Not the least important is the patient’s nutrition. If a lot is currently being said about a cholesterol-lowering diet and a full-fledged balanced diet, then there is almost nothing about the effect of foods on the blood system and the antithrombotic drugs taken.

“However, some of our usual foods and drinks that contain high amounts of vitamin K can affect the effectiveness of anticoagulants and the blood coagulation system in general,” says the doctor. – So, for example, if a person takes anticoagulants, you should limit your diet to green tea, spinach, cabbage, greens, kiwi, peas, cucumbers and some other “green” foods. Pay attention to multivitamins, they may also have an increased content of vitamin K.Adhere to the same diet at different times of the year. ”

Alcohol affects the effectiveness of most drugs, especially those with antithrombotic effects. As soon as alcohol enters the body, it quickly spreads throughout the blood system, penetrates into all cells, tissues and organs. Only two to ten percent of alcohol is excreted from the body unchanged, and up to 90-98% is metabolized in the liver, in the same place as many drugs. The higher the dose of alcohol, the more harmful it has.

You also need to know that drugs in the body can interact with each other, increasing or decreasing their effect. Even regular paracetamol or pain relievers when taken with anticoagulants can cause bleeding. In these cases, it is important to monitor blood clotting tests to avoid fatal complications.

Prevention of blood clots, simple and affordable: nash_dvor – LiveJournal

To promote healthy circulation in the body, it is best to avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing.Since blood clots can also develop on the legs, skinny jeans are especially detrimental to good blood circulation. Instead, opt for loose trousers or sweatpants, which are more comfortable to wear anyway.

Practice high intensity workouts. To avoid blood clots, it is important to stay active and avoid sitting for extended periods of time.

Stop every 2 hours when driving to warm up. If you are going on a longer trip, make sure you rest regularly and get out of your car to stretch and take a walk.

Eat natural blood thinners. Although doctors may prescribe blood thinners for you, there are several natural options as well. By adding raw garlic, turmeric, and ginkgo tea to your daily diet, you can reduce the risk of blood clots.

Flex and extend your toes and ankles. We spend most of our days sitting at work, which weakens the blood flow in our legs. If you cannot walk for long periods of time, you can always twist your ankles, bend your legs, and wiggle your toes to improve circulation to the area.

Apply immortelle oil to the skin. Helichrysum is a yellow flower that naturally thins the blood. It is also an anti-inflammatory component that makes it ideal for natural prevention of blood clots. Apply a few drops of oil to the area where you feel your circulation is at its worst.

Raise your legs regularly above your heart. Lying on your back, raise your legs against the wall. Just 15 centimeters above your heart and your head is enough.After a long day sitting or standing upright, this exercise is great for getting blood to flow through your body and not get stuck in your legs.

Avoid crossing your legs. Those at a particularly high risk of blood clots should try to avoid crossing their legs, especially for an extended period of time. Make sure you change positions frequently and do not put too much pressure on your legs. First of all, we need to feel comfortable and relaxed while sitting.

The doctor listed ways to avoid thrombosis after coronavirus: Society: Russia: Lenta.ru

Clinical pharmacologist, therapist Andrei Kondrakhin told how to avoid thrombosis after suffering a coronavirus. The Russian Ministry of Health previously reported that thrombosis is one of the most common consequences of the disease – they occur in 20-30 percent of cases. In a conversation with “Lenta.ru” the doctor said that this complication is the most dangerous and can lead to strokes and heart attacks even within a month after recovery.

The Russian Ministry of Health published a memo for citizens on the prevention of complications after COVID-19. According to the document, shortness of breath is the most common consequence after suffering a coronavirus – patients experienced it in 31.7 percent of cases. In addition, postcoid syndrome often manifests itself in the form of thrombosis (20 to 30 percent of cases), cough (13.5 percent), as well as chest pain and tachycardia (12.7 percent). It is noted that there are other symptoms, but their manifestation is less common.

The Ministry of Health noted that postcoid syndrome can appear after four weeks after the onset of symptoms of the disease itself. To avoid this as much as possible, the Russians were advised to undergo an in-depth medical examination. This can be done at the clinic at the place of attachment from July 1, 2021. You must have your passport and policy with you. Those who have already undergone a medical examination or a preventive medical examination this year can also sign up for an in-depth medical examination.

According to the doctor, thrombosis is a rather serious complication. To avoid it, during illness, patients are prescribed blood-thinning drugs of the heparin group or new oral coagulants.

“This group of medicines allows prevention of thrombosis and death from their formation. At the same time, aspirin and other drugs are not used – they have not been shown to be effective, there is no convincing evidence that they really help. Nevertheless, if a person asked for help on time, there is a chance to fully recover and not get thrombosis, especially of the pulmonary arteries, which we are most afraid of, ”the doctor said.

Materials on the topic

11:43 – February 18

00:00 – January 27

In addition, the physician noted that there are now accumulating cases of heart attacks and strokes after suffering COVID-19. The link between the two diseases remains to be studied.

“The risk of thrombosis persists for a month after the patient is officially discharged,” Kondrakhin added. – Especially if there were prerequisites, such as varicose veins of the lower extremities, thrombophlebitis, atrial fibrillation and even hemorrhoids.

Control over the ill person, according to Kondrakhin, remains, even if the person was healthy before and does not complain of well-being. After discharge, it is necessary to make a coagulogram – an analysis that evaluates blood clotting. “If the indicators are initially shifted upward, blood thinning drugs must be taken until the condition returns to normal. In some cases, the analysis must be taken again after two weeks and continue to consult with a doctor, ”the doctor added.

“There were cases when the blood changed repeatedly – on the first coagulogram everything was normal, on the second the indicators were overestimated. The risk persists for a month, long-term consequences that have arisen in a year or two cannot be associated with the postponed coronavirus, ”he explained.

Kondrakhin also recommended drinking plenty of water to prevent blood clots, especially in hot weather.

Rospotrebnadzor also stated that patients who have undergone an acute form of the disease experience symptoms such as general fatigue, muscle weakness, shortness of breath, and decreased exercise tolerance. In addition, according to the department, hair loss, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and cognitive functions are possible.

Russian scientists have found a way to create an artificial blood vessel

Scientists from St. Petersburg conducted a unique experiment. They implanted a polymer matrix as a vascular implant into the abdominal aorta of a rat and monitored the process of its dissolution for 16 months. In place of the matrix, an artificial vessel was formed, similar in its characteristics to a natural vessel, and the matrix itself showed high permeability, biocompatibility and non-toxicity.This work brought scientists closer to creating an artificial vessel. The results are published in the journal Cell and Tissue Biology.

The study was conducted by scientists and doctors from organizations such as Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University (SPbPU), the First St. I.P. Pavlova (PSPbGMU) and the Institute of Macromolecular Compounds of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

Synthetic prostheses are commonly used in cardiovascular surgery.They work well when reconstruction of vessels with large diameters (over 5 mm) is required. However, it is impossible to replace vessels of a smaller diameter with synthetic prostheses: proteins contained in the blood fall out on the inner walls, which, in combination with a low blood flow rate, causes the formation of blood clots. “It is not advisable to use a synthetic prosthesis in pediatric cardiac surgery, because the prosthesis does not grow with the child – it is necessary to perform repeated operations. These are the reasons why it is necessary to develop technologies for creating artificial vessels, ”explained Vladimir Yudin, head of the Research Laboratory (RL)“ Polymeric Materials for Tissue Engineering and Transplantology ”at SPbPU.

Employees of the Research Laboratory “Polymer Materials for Tissue Engineering and Transplantology” SPbPU made a synthetic matrix from a biodegradable polymer – polylactic acid, which is contained in the human body and which is approved by the FDA (Food & Drug Assosiation). In the body, the matrix gradually dissolves, and a vessel appears in its place.

“The matrix itself consists of nano- and microfibers, which are very similar to the fibrous structure of a natural vessel.Donor cells grow well on such a matrix. We studied its properties – mechanical strength, porosity, hydrophobicity. The matrix is ​​safe: it has been confirmed in experiments on laboratory animals and with cells “, – noted Pavel Popryadukhin, employee of the Research Laboratory” Polymeric materials for tissue engineering and transplantology “SPbPU.

Some of the experiments were carried out on the basis of the vivarium of the St. Petersburg State Medical University, where there is an operating room for experimental animals. Using microsurgical techniques, a matrix was sewn into the aorta area of ​​laboratory rats, and the rats were monitored.After removal of the area of ​​the aorta, which was replaced by the matrix, a histological examination was carried out. It showed that after 16 months the matrix was completely dissolved. In the intermediate stages, the artificial vessel looked very similar to the natural one. However, upon completion of the study, laboratory animals showed enlargement (aneurysm) in the reconstruction zone. To prevent the development of such complications, it is necessary to develop a method for additional strengthening of the matrix wall.

“At the same time, we made a lot of positive conclusions.The safety of the matrix has been demonstrated in long-term experiments. The very possibility of the formation of new tissues in it was shown. The matrix was proven to be non-toxic and has a high permeability: the total permeability of the implants was 93%. This is a high indicator, which suggests that while a new vessel is being formed, the matrix will be passable ”, – commented Guriy Popov, cardiovascular surgeon at St.

Scientists and doctors plan to implant the cells of the middle layer of the vessel, which is responsible for strength, into the matrix, and only then implant the matrix in laboratory animals.