Does Heating Pad Help Blood Clots?

Although the treatment of thrombosis will primarily require the use of blood thinners prescribed by the doctor, there may be certain treatments which the patient can do in his home to reduce the symptoms. Treatment procedures in home include implementation of safety precautions and methods while the patient is on anticoagulants. This is because being treated with anticoagulants increases the risk of bleeding.

Does Heating Pad Help Blood Clots?

Does Heating Pad Help Blood Clots?

The usage of a heating pad or even warm compress for blood clot is recommended for symptom relief temporarily. Heating pads promote blood circulation in the body which reduces the pain experienced in thrombosis. The patient can use the heating pad in his home to reduce the pain and increase blood circulation in the body. The patient may be recommended to use a heating pad for 20 to 30 minutes 3 to 4 times a day to get relief from pain.

What are the Forms of Treatment for Thrombosis?

Thrombosis includes the formation of blood clots that may affect the normal blood circulation in the patient’s body. Thus, the treatment of such blood clots is essential. The various forms of treatment methods include-

  • Blood thinners- Such medications are used basically to prevent pulmonary embolism. There are various blood thinners or anticoagulants which may be used according to the doctor’s preference and recommendation.
  • Thrombolysis- This involves insertion of a catheter in the vein having the blood clot in order to break the clot so formed. The whole procedure is done under the guidance of interventional radiologists and is designed to break up the clots formed and restore the proper blood flow in the vein. This particular procedure essentially minimizes the risk of post-thrombotic syndrome.
  • Inferior vena cava filter- This method is particularly less commonly used. Such mode of treatment is essentially used for patients who cannot go for anticoagulant medication. It is also used for people who have recurrent clots while on some form of medications. The procedure involves implantation of a medical device in the inferior vena cava in order to prevent blockage in the artery of the lungs due to blood clotting. It is a common practice to use retrievable filters. It must be noted that there is a risk of injury in the inferior vena cava if the filter gets dislodged or is attempted to be removed after weeks.
  • Surgery- Sometimes in rare cases, surgical removal of blood clots may be considered. This may be done in case a very large clot is present which probably blocks a major blood vessel causing serious symptoms.

What are the Other Possible Precautions That Need To Be Taken For Treating Blood Clot?

Formation of blood clots is not healthy and may affect blood circulation in the patient’s body. The various precautions to be taken while the patient undergoes treatment for blood clot include-

  • It should be taken care that the patient takes his dose of anticoagulant as directed by the doctor.
  • The patient should be careful enough and try monitoring his response to the drugs and medication the doctor asks him to take. This may include going for blood tests according to the doctor’s advice after every 2 to 4 weeks.
  • Strenuous activities should be avoided as far as possible. Such activities may increase the risk of injury.
  • The patient should take a good note of the diet he has. Increased consumption of foods rich in vitamin K should be avoided. This is because vitamin K may interfere with the working of the anticoagulants so taken increasing the risks of more blood clots.
  • Consumption of alcohol should be done in moderation.
Team PainAssist
Team PainAssist
Written, Edited or Reviewed By: Team PainAssist, Pain Assist Inc. This article does not provide medical advice. See disclaimer
Last Modified On:February 24, 2018

Recent Posts

Related Posts