Blood clots can be prevented by taking blood thinners, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, wearing loose clothing, and using compression stockings. After surgery, patients should move as soon as possible, and bedridden patients should elevate their legs to prevent deep vein thrombosis.
A blood clot, also known as a thrombus, occurs when a person’s blood clots or thickens. Blood clotting is needed to stop bleeding, but serious health problems can occur if a clot forms in your veins or other blood vessels. Many people at risk of developing blood clots are advised to take a blood thinner, exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Wearing specialized clothing and elevating your legs can also help prevent blood clots, especially after surgery.
Blood thinners, or anticoagulants, are one of the most common ways to prevent blood clots from forming. These medications help thin the blood and keep it from thickening. Aspirin is one of the most common blood thinners and is usually taken in small doses. Prescription blood thinners are also available.
Many times, blood clots will develop in individuals who are immobile for long periods of time. Regular exercise is often recommended to help prevent blood clots. This can help keep the blood pumping through your veins, preventing clotting. A daily exercise routine is considered to be very helpful when a person wants to prevent blood clots.
A healthy lifestyle is also recommended to help reduce the risk of blood clots. This includes eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight. Also, people who drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes are advised to stop, as these activities can greatly increase the risk of developing blood clots.
Tight-fitting clothing is also generally not recommended when trying to prevent blood clots. Pants with snug elastic waistbands and other similar clothing can restrict blood flow. Loose clothing is recommended.
Doctors often suggest compression stockings to prevent blood clots. These socks are usually made from a stretchy material and put even pressure on your legs and feet. They are often used after surgery. This pressure can help improve circulation and prevent blood from pooling in your legs.
Patients who have undergone surgery are especially encouraged to take steps to prevent blood clots from forming. While it can be painful or difficult, they are often advised to move as soon as they feel well enough to do so. This will also help improve circulation and prevent pooling of blood.
Bedridden patients can often develop deep vein thrombosis. This occurs when a large clot forms within deeper veins, usually in the legs, and can be fatal if the clot travels to the lungs. To prevent blood clots of this type, doctors recommend slightly elevating your legs. This can be done by raising the bottom of the bed about 6 inches (15.2 centimeters) or by placing pillows under the knees and ankles.
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