Deep Vein Thrombosis - A Big Risk You've Never Heard Of

[marie]

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Also called:

• Blood clot in the legs
• Venous thrombosis
• Venous thromboembolism (VTE) - this term is used for both deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in the body's deep veins, usually in the lower leg or thigh. Part of a clot may break off and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE). An embolism can get stuck in the brain, lungs, heart, or other area, leading to severe damage, and, possibly death.

DVT can occur at any age, that includes healthy people, young and old.

Estimates suggest that 350,000 to 600,000 Americans have a DVT or PE each year, and that at least 100,000 people die as a result. Many of those who have a DVT or PE also have complications that can greatly impact their quality of life.

Protect Yourself

• When sitting for long periods of time (example - traveling or studying):
  
  • Get up and walk around every 1 to 2 hours.
  • Exercise your legs while you sit:
    
    • Raise and lower your heels while keeping your toes on the floor.
    • Raise and lower your toes while keeping your heels on the floor.
    • Tightening and releasing your leg muscles.
  • Drink plenty of water, and avoid drinking anything with alcohol or caffeine in it.
• Move around as soon as possible after having been confined to bed, such as after surgery, illness, or injury.
• If you are at increased risk, talk to your doctor about wearing graduated compression stockings (support hose), and about medication (anticoagulants) to prevent or treat DVT.
• Exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, and don't smoke.

[Anonymous Bot]