About all

What are the signs of blood clots in the legs. Blood Clots in Legs: Recognizing Signs and Understanding Risks

What are the warning signs of blood clots in legs. How does cancer increase the risk of blood clots. What preventive measures can be taken against blood clots in legs. How are blood clots in legs diagnosed and treated. What complications can arise from untreated blood clots in legs.

Содержание

Understanding Blood Clots: A Comprehensive Overview

Blood clots, medically known as thrombosis, are a serious medical condition that can occur in various parts of the body. While they can develop in arteries, they most commonly form in veins, particularly in the legs. This condition, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can have severe consequences if left untreated.

Thrombophilia, a term encompassing conditions that increase the tendency to develop blood clots, can be either inherited or acquired. Inherited thrombophilia is rooted in genetic factors, while acquired thrombophilia can result from lifestyle choices or medical conditions such as immobility, obesity, trauma, smoking, or oral contraceptive use.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Blood Clots in Legs

Identifying the signs of blood clots in legs is crucial for early intervention. The symptoms can vary depending on the clot’s size and location, but common indicators include:

  • Swelling in the affected leg
  • Pain or tenderness, often described as a cramping sensation
  • Redness and warmth in the area
  • Discoloration of the skin, typically a reddish or bluish hue
  • A feeling of heaviness in the leg

In some cases, you may even be able to feel the clot as a firm, rope-like structure under the skin. It’s important to note that these symptoms can sometimes be subtle or mistaken for other conditions, making vigilance crucial.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience any combination of these symptoms, especially if they develop suddenly or worsen over time, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent potentially life-threatening complications.

The Connection Between Cancer and Blood Clots

Cancer patients face an increased risk of developing blood clots, a phenomenon known as cancer-associated thrombosis. This heightened risk is due to several factors:

  1. Cancer cells can produce substances that promote blood clotting
  2. Certain cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, can increase clotting risk
  3. Reduced mobility during cancer treatment can lead to blood stasis
  4. Surgical procedures related to cancer treatment may increase clot formation risk

Cancer patients should be particularly vigilant about the signs of blood clots and discuss preventive measures with their healthcare providers.

Diagnosing Blood Clots in Legs: Medical Approaches

Diagnosing blood clots in legs typically involves a combination of clinical assessment and diagnostic tests. Healthcare providers may use the following methods:

  • Physical examination to check for swelling, tenderness, and discoloration
  • D-dimer blood test to detect elevated levels of a substance released when blood clots break down
  • Ultrasound imaging to visualize blood flow and identify clots
  • Venography, a specialized X-ray technique using contrast dye to highlight veins
  • CT or MRI scans for more detailed imaging, especially in complex cases

Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of complications.

Treatment Options for Blood Clots in Legs

The treatment of blood clots in legs aims to prevent the clot from growing, reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism, and alleviate symptoms. Common treatment approaches include:

  1. Anticoagulant medications (blood thinners) to prevent further clot formation
  2. Thrombolytic therapy to dissolve large clots in severe cases
  3. Compression stockings to improve blood flow and reduce swelling
  4. In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary

The choice of treatment depends on the clot’s size and location, the patient’s overall health, and the presence of any underlying conditions.

Ongoing Management and Follow-up Care

After initial treatment, patients typically require ongoing management to prevent recurrence and monitor for complications. This may involve continued use of anticoagulants, regular follow-up appointments, and lifestyle modifications to reduce risk factors.

Preventing Blood Clots: Strategies for Risk Reduction

While not all blood clots can be prevented, there are several strategies to reduce the risk:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise routine
  • Staying hydrated, especially during long periods of sitting or travel
  • Taking breaks to move around during long flights or car trips
  • Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
  • Discussing the use of compression stockings with a healthcare provider
  • Following medication regimens as prescribed, especially for those with known risk factors

For individuals with a history of blood clots or those at high risk, additional preventive measures may be recommended by healthcare providers.

Complications of Untreated Blood Clots: Understanding the Risks

Untreated blood clots in legs can lead to serious complications, including:

  1. Pulmonary embolism: A life-threatening condition where a clot breaks off and travels to the lungs
  2. Post-thrombotic syndrome: Long-term swelling, pain, and skin changes in the affected limb
  3. Chronic venous insufficiency: Impaired blood flow in the veins, leading to ongoing symptoms
  4. Tissue damage: In severe cases, lack of blood flow can cause tissue death in the affected area

These potential complications underscore the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of blood clots in legs.

Thrombosis in Special Populations: Children and Pregnant Women

While blood clots are often associated with older adults, they can affect individuals of all ages, including children and pregnant women. These populations require special consideration in diagnosis and treatment.

Thrombosis in Children

Although less common than in adults, thrombosis in children can occur, particularly in those with complex medical conditions. Symptoms may be similar to those in adults, but diagnosis and treatment require pediatric expertise. Specialized programs, such as the Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Thrombosis and Anticoagulation Program, offer targeted care for young patients.

Thrombosis During Pregnancy

Pregnant women face an increased risk of blood clots due to hormonal changes and physical factors. Vigilant monitoring and appropriate preventive measures are crucial throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Research and Advancements in Blood Clot Management

Ongoing research aims to improve the understanding, prevention, and treatment of blood clots. Current areas of focus include:

  • Development of new oral anticoagulants with improved safety profiles
  • Studies on the optimal duration of anticoagulation therapy
  • Investigation of novel molecules and mechanisms for controlling platelet function
  • Exploration of the relationship between antiplatelet treatments and the balance of thrombosis and hemorrhage
  • Advancement of platelet function tests to guide antiplatelet therapy in clinical settings

These research efforts hold promise for enhancing the management of blood clots and improving patient outcomes in the future.

Living with a History of Blood Clots: Long-term Considerations

For individuals who have experienced a blood clot, long-term management is crucial to prevent recurrence and maintain overall health. This may involve:

  1. Ongoing anticoagulation therapy, with regular monitoring
  2. Lifestyle modifications to reduce risk factors
  3. Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers
  4. Vigilant self-monitoring for signs of recurrence
  5. Participation in support groups or counseling to address the psychological impact of the condition

Understanding the long-term implications of a history of blood clots empowers patients to take an active role in their health management.

The Role of Genetics in Blood Clot Risk

Genetic factors can significantly influence an individual’s risk of developing blood clots. Inherited thrombophilias, such as Factor V Leiden mutation or Protein C deficiency, can increase clotting tendency. Understanding one’s genetic predisposition can inform preventive strategies and guide medical decision-making.

Genetic Testing and Counseling

For individuals with a family history of blood clots or those who have experienced unexplained clotting events, genetic testing may be recommended. Genetic counseling can help interpret results and provide guidance on managing inherited risk factors.

Emerging Technologies in Blood Clot Detection and Management

Advancements in medical technology are enhancing the ability to detect and manage blood clots. Some promising developments include:

  • Wearable devices that monitor blood flow and alert users to potential clot formation
  • Advanced imaging techniques for more precise clot visualization
  • Artificial intelligence algorithms to assist in risk assessment and treatment planning
  • Novel drug delivery systems for more targeted anticoagulation therapy

These innovations hold the potential to revolutionize the approach to blood clot prevention and treatment in the coming years.

The Impact of Lifestyle on Blood Clot Risk

While some risk factors for blood clots are beyond an individual’s control, lifestyle choices can significantly influence clotting risk. Key areas of focus include:

  1. Physical activity: Regular exercise promotes healthy blood circulation
  2. Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports cardiovascular health
  3. Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the strain on the circulatory system
  4. Stress management: Chronic stress can negatively impact cardiovascular health
  5. Hydration: Adequate fluid intake helps maintain proper blood viscosity

By adopting a healthy lifestyle, individuals can take proactive steps to reduce their risk of blood clots and improve overall well-being.

Blood Clots and Travel: Minimizing Risk During Long Journeys

Long periods of immobility, such as during air travel or extended car rides, can increase the risk of blood clots. Travelers can take several precautions to minimize this risk:

  • Perform simple leg exercises while seated
  • Take regular breaks to walk and stretch
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Consider wearing compression stockings for long flights
  • Avoid alcohol and sedatives that may promote immobility

For individuals with known risk factors, consulting a healthcare provider before long journeys can provide personalized advice on travel-related clot prevention.

The Psychological Impact of Blood Clots: Coping and Support

Experiencing a blood clot can have significant psychological effects, including anxiety about recurrence and lifestyle limitations. Addressing these emotional aspects is crucial for overall well-being:

  1. Seeking support from mental health professionals specializing in chronic health conditions
  2. Joining support groups to connect with others who have similar experiences
  3. Practicing stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness or meditation
  4. Educating oneself about the condition to feel more in control
  5. Communicating openly with healthcare providers about concerns and fears

A holistic approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of living with a history of blood clots can significantly improve quality of life.

Blood Clots in the Context of Global Health

Blood clots represent a significant global health concern, with varying prevalence and management approaches across different regions. Factors influencing the global landscape of blood clot management include:

  • Access to diagnostic tools and treatments in different healthcare systems
  • Cultural variations in lifestyle factors that influence clot risk
  • Genetic differences among populations affecting clotting tendencies
  • Disparities in awareness and education about blood clot risks
  • International collaboration in research and treatment guidelines

Understanding these global perspectives can inform policy-making and resource allocation to address blood clot prevention and treatment on a worldwide scale.

Thrombosis (Blood Clots) | Boston Children’s Hospital

Listen

Thrombosis is a blood clot that develops within veins or sometimes arteries in the body. Thrombosis may be serious or inconvenient but often occurs as a complication of a procedure, medication, or other disease. If left untreated a thrombosis can cause long-term problems; such as chronic swelling, pain, or even permanent damage to internal organs.

Thrombophilia refers to anything that increases one’s tendency to develop blood clots. Thrombosis in children is uncommon and is most often seen in children with complex medical problems or procedures. Thrombophilia can be considered the opposite of hemophilia, a disorder that prevents blood from clotting.

How is thrombophilia classified?

Thrombophilia refers to a group of disorders that increases a child’s tendency to develop dangerous blood clots. There are two main types of thrombophilia:

  • Inherited thrombophilia is caused by certain genetic conditions.
  • Acquired thrombophilia is caused by lifestyle factors or medical conditions, including immobility, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, trauma, smoking, or oral contraceptive use.

How we care for thrombosis

Children and young adults with blood clots are treated through the Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Thrombosis and Anticoagulation Program. Through our unique program, we can quickly identify children who need anticoagulation medications (or “blood-thinners”) using established monitoring and risk identification guidelines. Children outside of the hospital visit our outpatient center staffed by pediatric hematologists and pediatric hematology nurse practitioners with specialized expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of thrombosis.

Our areas of research for thrombosis

For many children with rare or hard-to-treat conditions, clinical trials provide new options. Participation in any clinical trial is completely voluntary. We will take care to fully explain all elements of the treatment plan prior to the start of the trial, and you may remove your child from the medical study at any time. Currently, our hematology team is studying several new oral blood thinners in children for treatment and prevention of blood clots. We are also involved in an international study of the length of anticoagulation needed to treat thrombosis. Your hematologist may mention opportunities to participate in these studies, but you should feel free to ask about current research studies relevant to your child.

Researchers at Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s perform scientific and clinical research on platelets and related aspects of hemostasis and thrombosis. A particular focus is antiplatelet therapy, including the characterization of:

  • how newly discovered molecules and mechanisms could help control platelets and clotting
  • how antiplatelet drugs affect normal blood clotting (coagulation) and aspects of the immune system (e. g., inflammation)
  • the relationship between the strength of antiplatelet treatments and the balance between thrombosis (uncontrolled clotting) and hemorrhage (uncontrolled bleeding)
  • how tests of platelet function could help guide antiplatelet therapy in the clinic

Thrombosis | Symptoms & Causes

What are the symptoms of thrombosis?

Thrombosis symptoms in children can vary significantly depending on the size and location of the blood clot, and each child may experience symptoms differently. A thrombosis may occur anywhere in a child’s body, but most are in the legs or arms (deep-vein thrombosis or DVT) or lungs (pulmonary embolism). Other types of thrombosis include sinus venous thrombosis and arterial thrombosis.

Children with a thrombosis in the legs or arms may have the following symptoms:

  • swelling
  • pain
  • redness and warmth
  • low-grade fever
  • in some cases, you may even be able feel the clot, like a knot or rope under the skin

If a child has a pulmonary embolism, they may experience:

  • chest pain
  • shortness of breath, often beginning suddenly

A pulmonary embolus is a life-threatening medical emergency, and you should seek help immediately if you suspect this condition in your child.

It is important to understand that some thrombosis symptoms may resemble those of other more common medical problems. Because some of these symptoms can also point to other conditions, it’s important to have your child evaluated by a qualified medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment. If you have a family history of thrombosis, it is important to bring this up during evaluation for these symptoms.

What causes thrombosis?

There are three categories of causes of thrombosis: damage to the blood vessel (catheter or surgery), slowed blood flow (immobility), and/or thrombophilia (if the blood itself is more likely to clot).

Causes of thrombosis depend on whether your child has inherited or acquired thrombosis. Inherited thrombophilia is caused by certain genetic conditions while acquired thrombophilia is caused by lifestyle factors or medical conditions.

Possible factors for acquired thrombophilia include:

  • immobility
  • obesity
  • sedentary lifestyle
  • trauma

In teens and adults, risk factors also may include smoking or oral contraceptive use. Some patients with chronic inflammation or rheumatologic disorders may develop antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, a disorder where antibodies produced by the patient cause thrombosis to occur.

Thrombosis | Diagnosis & Treatments

How is thrombosis diagnosed?

The first step in treating your child is forming an accurate and complete diagnosis. If thrombosis is suspected, imaging is done to confirm the diagnosis and to define where the blood clot starts and ends. Thrombosis is sometimes found accidentally but mostly because patients develop signs and symptoms of a blood clot. 

If your child is suspected of having a thrombosis, diagnostic tests may include:

  • a physical examination to evaluate symptoms of a blood clot
  • ultrasound, an imaging technique that uses high frequency sound waves and their echoes to make images of the inside of your child’s body
  • magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), an imaging exam that uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to produce two- and three-dimensional images of your child’s body’s organs, tissues, and bones
  • computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan, a non-invasive procedure that uses X-ray equipment and computers to create detailed, cross-sectional images of your child’s body
  • analysis of blood samples to evaluate whether your child’s blood is clotting normally and identify any abnormalities in the levels of certain proteins
  • genetic tests may be performed to check for hereditary disorders (inherited thrombophilia)

There may be other diagnostic tests your doctor will discuss with you depending on your child’s individual situation. After we complete all necessary tests, our experts meet to review and discuss what they have learned about your child’s condition. Then we will meet with you and your family to discuss the results and outline the best possible treatment options.

What are the treatment options for thrombosis?

Your child’s treatment team will determine a specific care plan. In most cases, thrombosis is treated with anticoagulation medications (blood thinners). These medications prevent the clot from growing and decrease the risk of its breaking apart and causing further complications. Your child may need to continue taking these medications for several months after initial treatment.

Examples of anticoagulation medication your child’s physician may prescribe include:

  • injections under the skin (also called subcutaneous injections) of a low molecular weight heparin such as enoxaparin (Lovenox) or dalteparin (Fragmin)
  • oral agents such as warfarin (Coumadin)
  • intravenous heparin
  • antiplatelet agents such as aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), or prasugrel (Effient)

Other treatments may include wearing compression stockings, remaining active, and applying warm packs to improve blood flow and pain caused by the clot.

Of course, your child’s team of doctors will help determine the best approach for your child’s unique situation, based on a number of factors, including:

  • your child’s age, overall health, and medical history
  • the severity of the disease
  • your child’s tolerance for certain medications, procedures, or therapies
  • how your child’s doctors expect the disease to progress
  • your opinion and preferences

What is the long-term outlook for children with thrombosis?

Some deep vein thromboses may resolve without treatment. Treatment is given to help get rid of the blood clot and to minimize complications of thrombosis. If the blood clot remains, other veins will enlarge to bypass the blockage. Sometimes these veins are visible, like varicose veins. After a blood clot some people develop long-term pain and swelling in the leg called post-thrombotic syndrome, which is caused by reduced blood flow and damage to the affected vein. Some patients also have changes in skin color, which may not develop for a year or more afterward.

Blood clots in the thigh are more likely to break off and travel to the lungs than blood clots below the knee or in the arms. A pulmonary embolism can be a life-threatening emergency, requiring immediate medical attention.

Thrombosis | Programs & Services

Departments

Centers

Programs

Thrombosis | Contact Us

Know the Warning Signs of a Blood Clot

Around 900,000 people in the U.S. will experience a blood clot this year. One in nine of those people will die. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the warning signs of a blood clot, especially if you are at high risk.

Eric Jackson
on
April 13, 2022

Print 🖨 PDF 📄 eBook 📱

All About Blood Clots

Your blood consists of different types of cells. When these cells stick together in a clump, a blood clot forms. Sometimes blood clots are helpful, like when you cut yourself and the blood clots at the wound to stop bleeding. But when blood clots form inside your veins and don’t break down, or if your body produces too many blood clots, it can be incredibly dangerous. Blood clots can prevent blood flow to key organs in your body, resulting in life-threatening situations.

There are two types of blood clots that are the most common.

  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins in your legs and sometimes your arms.
  • Pulmonary embolism is a DVT clot (or part of one) that has traveled into your lungs.

When blood clots form in blood vessels in other parts of your body, you can experience a heart attack, kidney failure or a stroke.

Risk Factors for Blood Clots

About half of all blood clots occur right after or even during a hospital stay for surgery. If you know you are at risk for blood clots or have a history of blood clots, let your doctors know this before any medical procedure.

Other risk factors for blood clots include:

  • Age
  • Cancer and cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy
  • Certain genetic conditions
  • COVID-19 diagnosis
  • Diabetes
  • Family history of blood clots
  • Hormone replacement therapy and hormonal birth control use
  • Long periods of seated travel, such as international flights 
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy
  • Smoking

Warning Signs and Symptoms of Blood Clots

The signs of a blood clot will vary depending on where in your body the clot is. Often, blood clots will have no signs until they cause a pulmonary embolism. Sometimes a blood clot in the leg will feel like a pulled muscle, while one in your lung may feel like someone is sitting on your chest, preventing you from breathing.

A great way to remember the signs of a blood clot is by using the acronym STOP (the) CLOT.

  • Swelling in the leg or arm
  • Tenderness or cramps in the leg
  • Out of breath, or shortness of breath
  • Passing out or feeling lightheaded
  • Chest pain or back pain when breathing
  • Leg discoloration, either a red or blue hue
  • Overdrive, when your heart is racing
  • Time to call 911

Other symptoms of DVT include your leg or arm feeling warm to the touch. If you are experiencing a pulmonary embolism, symptoms could also include coughing up blood.

How to Prevent Blood Clots

If you think you or a loved one may be experiencing a blood clot, it’s important to get medical treatment immediately. It’s also important to talk to your doctor if you think you are at high risk for blood clots. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is possible to prevent blood clots with the use of medications like blood thinners. Blood clots may also be prevented by:

  • Exercising regularly
  • Getting up and walking every hour, if possible, on flights or other travel that involves sitting for long periods
  • Losing weight
  • Wearing compression socks or tights

Do you have blood clots and live in the Baltimore area? Find out how the Outpatient Anticoagulation Clinic at University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center can help you today.

Are you at risk for a blood clot?
The University of Maryland Medical System offers individualized treatment for blood clots and experienced vascular care to help prevent them.

Find a Provider

  • Category:
    Health Awareness, Heart Conditions, Lung Conditions
  • Tag:
    Concerning Symptoms, Health Awareness, Heart Conditions, lung, pulmonary, vascular, vein

Subscribe to Our Emails


First Name*

Last Name*

Email*

Mailing Zip/Postal Code*

Birthdate*

Home Phone*

Listen to Our Newest Podcasts

About Us

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is a university-based regional health care system focused on serving the health care needs of Maryland.

We bring innovation, discovery and research to the care we provide all while educating the state’s future physicians and health care professionals through our partnership with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and the UM Schools of Nursing, Pharmacy, Social Work and Dentistry in Baltimore.

Learn more.

Medical Disclaimer

The content provided in this blog has been reviewed by University of Maryland Medical System providers or affiliates who are subject matter experts.

The content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, or as a substitute for the medical advice of a trained healthcare provider.

Always seek out the advice of a qualified medical provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen.

Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

Find a provider at umms. org/doctor.

Blood clots in the legs can be suspected by these signs – the doctor gave advice

How to recognize thrombosis in time (photo: freepik)

Author:
Vasilina Kopytko

Pain in the legs can be not only a sign of overwork, but also signal the appearance of blood clots in the veins. In no case should you ignore this symptom, because blood clots can break off and enter other organs through the bloodstream.

Express writes about the 4 warning signs of vein thrombosis.

What are the signs of a blood clot?

Venous surgeon Omar Abu-Bakr states that approximately 50% of people with deep vein thrombosis may not experience any symptoms at all. Therefore, sometimes this problem is called a “silent” state.

When symptoms appear, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

The doctor named 4 warning signs that indicate blood clots in the veins.

Edema

Swelling, usually in the leg, ankle or foot, is considered one of the signs of deep vein thrombosis.

“On its own, this symptom can be mistaken for something else, such as an insect bite. However, in combination with other signs, it can be an indicator of deep vein thrombosis,” the doctor explained.

Pain and spasms in dilated veins

Edema can often be accompanied by visibly swollen veins that are difficult to touch.

“In addition to swelling, people can also experience sharp, painful leg cramps. These usually start in the calves and then spread to the rest of the leg,” Omar said.

Warmth or redness

Deep vein thrombosis may cause a feeling of warmth in the affected area around the site of the thrombus.

“This heat is noticeable by the temperature difference between the affected area and other parts of the body,” Abu-Bakr specified.

Discoloration of the skin

The affected area may change its usual color and become pale with a red or blue tint.

“If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if you have risk factors for deep vein thrombosis, it’s important to see your doctor right away to prevent complications,” advises the venous surgeon.

How to reduce the risk of blood clots in the veins

The doctor recommends the use of compression stockings to improve blood circulation in the legs (especially useful when it comes to long-haul flights).

It is also important to be physically active to eliminate risk factors for deep vein thrombosis. Mobility will maintain a healthy weight, improve circulation and lung function, and strengthen muscles.

Drink regularly, this will reduce the risk of blood clots. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing (or take frequent breaks to stretch your legs).

“It is important to note that these strategies may not be effective in all cases, and some people may need additional interventions such as drugs or surgery to prevent thrombosis,” the doctor said.

Read RBC-Ukraine in Google News

healthy
Doctor’s advice

Named signs that a deadly blood clot has already formed in your body

  • Health

A blood clot can cause death – cause cardiac arrest, breathing and lead to a stroke. What signs might indicate that you are in danger? Named the symptoms of the appearance of blood clots in the vessels.

April 6, 2022

Source:
Getty Images

A blood clot is a blood clot that forms in thick vessels (most often in the legs and heart) and blocks the blood supply. Having broken away and moving with the bloodstream, a blood clot can cause a sudden blockage of a vessel – moreover, even located quite far from the place where the blood clot formed. If it enters the lungs or brain, a pulmonary embolism (PE) or stroke develops.

Why blood clots form – 6 factors

Taking hormonal birth control pills

Hormones can thicken your blood and cause hypercoagulability. But according to statistics, a blood clot occurs in one in a hundred women taking birth control. Overall, these pills are safe, highly effective, and their other health benefits outweigh the possible risks.

Some doctors recommend testing for a predisposition to increased blood clotting before taking hormones. This is a comprehensive genetic study that allows you to determine the risk of developing hereditary thrombophilia.

Pregnancy

Hormonal changes during pregnancy (especially estrogen levels) can also cause blood clots due to hypercoagulability. The most dangerous in this sense is the third trimester of pregnancy or the period immediately after childbirth.

Smoking

Smoking can cause many health problems, including blood clots. Smoking disrupts the mechanisms of blood clotting and negatively affects blood vessels. They are destroyed and damaged by the chemicals in cigarettes.

Surgery

Some hip, abdominal and leg surgeries increase the risk of blood clots. Patients who have undergone surgery, after which mobility is noticeably limited, are at greatest risk. The solution may be to wear special stockings and resume physical activity as much as possible after surgery.

Overweight

Obesity causes slow blood flow in the veins, which increases the risk of blood clots.

Heart disease

If the heart does not work properly, blood flow is disturbed – blood flows more slowly and is distributed unevenly throughout the body. This can lead to the formation of blood clots.

See also

How to reduce the risk of blood clots

  • regular exercise,

  • weight control, BMI less than 25,

  • 9000 2 smoking cessation,

  • during sedentary work – “sports » five minutes every hour,

  • a healthy plant-based diet,

  • keeping LDL or “bad” cholesterol below 100 mg/dL,

  • blood pressure control,

  • addition of omega-3 fatty acids to the diet.

Signs of a fatal blood clot

Leg clot

“Blood clots most commonly form in the lower leg or thigh,” says Dr. Vincent Nouri, board certified vascular surgeon at Baltimore Medical Center. — The most common signs of thrombosis are swelling, pain, fever, and erythema — reddening of the skin. Most often, these symptoms appear on the calves of both one leg and both.

Thrombus in the arm

Clots are less common in the arm than in the legs. Signs of a blood clot in the arm are swelling, pain, tingling, or discomfort when moving the elbow or wrist.

Thrombosis in the lung

Signs of a blood clot in the lungs – shortness of breath (especially on exertion), chest pain, fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat.

Read also

When you urgently need to see a doctor

If you have the above symptoms, you should definitely visit a doctor and pass the necessary tests.

The situation is especially dangerous for those who can answer yes to the questions below. These patients should seek emergency medical attention

  • You have traveled within the last 90 days (you have had a long flight or a long non-stop car ride).

  • You have suffered a moderate or severe injury (eg painful fall, severe bruising, fracture).

  • You have recently had surgery.

  • You are taking hormonal birth control or are on hormone replacement therapy.

  • You have recently been diagnosed with cancer.

  • You have chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or coughing up blood.

Read also

Earlier, doctor Vladimir Pirozhnikov told what eating habits can cause thrombosis. At risk, for example, lovers of pork and beef liver. The fact is that it contains many vitamins of the K group – and they have a bad effect on blood clotting and increase the likelihood of blood clots.

The doctor also called a feeling of lack of air, increased swelling, cramps in the legs, pain in the abdomen and bouts of nausea and vomiting as signs of a blood clot.

Text author:Anna Mayskaya

Read today

This edible weed will protect the body from atherosclerosis, cancer and diabetes

An accessible herb has been named that will help pump the brain

It’s a shame to smile.