Deep vein thrombosis or DVT is the formation of a clot in the blood that occurs in the veins. Although its occurrence can be at any place, the most affected region is the legs. It is capable of blocking the flow of blood partially or entirely. Due to this, one will suffer from heart attack or pulmonary embolism due to lack of flow of blood. Also, it can break free and travel to other parts creating a ruckus within the body. About one in every ten people faces death due to the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis.
How Do You Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis?
According to an estimation, 350,000 Americans face deep vein thrombosis or DVT each year. Although the number is speculation, it can be on the higher side because it is difficult to detect deep vein thrombosis or DVT in its initial stage. However, possessing the knowledge about the signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis will be helpful for any individual to visit the nearest physician and speak about the condition. If the indications point out towards the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis or DVT, then the following preventive measures will be of immense help.
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Lifestyle Changes
Participating in exercises, especially walking, swimming, and bicycling is a great way to prevent the occurrence of the clot in the veins and deep vein thrombosis or DVT. Apart from this, the activity also helps you in managing the weight. It is also crucial to alter the diet by concentrating on adding more of vegetables and fruits. At the same moment, it is necessary to quit smoking and keep away from alcohol. Speaking about medical history with the doctor will also be helpful in assessing the situation and provide the required event of action.
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After Surgery or While on the Bed
After an operation, the surgeon will keep an update about the chances for the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis or DVT. In a few cases, the risk is high immediately after the completion of surgery. For a few, the illness slowly develops due to less activity after the surgery. Based on the symptoms, the surgeon will opt for anticoagulants that are helpful in thinning the blood. The medications include heparin, warfarin, apixaban, dabigatran, edoxaban, and rivaroxaban.
Additionally, opting for local anesthesia is preferable rather than general anesthesia as it can cause numbness, which leads to the development of deep vein thrombosis or DVT after the surgery. Choosing local anesthesia and wearing compression sleeves will be of good use for free flow of the blood. Additionally, during the recovery period, maintain the end of the bed higher than the pillow end. You can also follow the exercises as prescribed by the doctor such as ankle movements and leg lifts to prevent DVT.
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Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis While Traveling
For long journeys, it is necessary to stretch legs at frequent intervals to prevent blood clotting. For people opting for longer journeys on flights can utilize the opportunity to walk around to stretch the legs. For those who are travelling by car, it is reasonable to give breaks at every two or three hours and stretch out to offer comfort and prevent the occurrence of blood clotting and deep vein thrombosis or DVT. While you are stuck in your seat, which gives you no opportunity to stretch, then you can choose to flex your feet and press the toes down.
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Proper Hydration Can Help Prevent DVT
Drinking plenty of fluid foods is of immense importance to prevent deep vein thrombosis or DVT. However, keeping away from alcohol and caffeine content is preferable. These two products possess the capability of dehydrating the body, which further narrows the vein and make the blood thicker.
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Tight Fittings
It is further essential to keep away from wearing tight socks and stockings to prevent deep vein thrombosis or DVT. Choosing compression stockings is preferable, as they help maintain the blood flow.
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