Blood clots are very serious. Blood clots can be fatal. In the brain, a blood clot causes a stroke. In the heart, blood clots can cause a heart attack. Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT is when blood clots (thrombi) form in your veins. These clots can break loose and travel through your bloodstream and lodge in your lungs, blocking blood flow (pulmonary embolism).
A blood clot is a solid clump of blood.
Symptoms
DVT can present with no symptoms. In some cases, however, sufferers experience swelling in the legs and other extremities. Some people feel pain. Alternatively, loss of sensation in these parts is also common.
There may be a ‘hot spot’ on the skin at the location of the clot/blockage.
This condition is also sometimes referred to as thromboembolism, post-thrombotic syndrome, and postphlebitic syndrome.
Deep vein blood clots typically form in your thigh or lower leg. It happens mostly after surgery.
People who suffer from DVT may notice swelling of the lower extremities like the ankle, thigh or foot. There may be constant cramping. People describe their calves and feet ‘pulling stiff’ or hardening. Movement is restricted and painful. Also, the skin over the affected area will turn pale or a reddish or bluish colour because of the lack of blood flow in the area.
There is also the chance of the upper extremities being affected. Some people experience the same type of pain and swelling in the neck, face and arms and hands.
Weakness in the grip of the hand, loss of sensation in the fingertips and swelling of the wrist, elbow joint and fingers could occur as a sign of upper DVT.
According to Healthline, people may not find out that they have deep vein thrombosis until they have gone through emergency treatment for a pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung).
A pulmonary embolism can happen when a DVT clot has moved from the arm or leg into the lung. When an artery in the lung becomes blocked, it is a life-threatening condition that requires emergency care.
What causes DVT?
As stated above, people usually experience blood clots after trauma or surgery. Certain medications can increase the chances of developing a blood clot. Usually, doctors will prescribe blood-thinning medications to reverse the effect of these prescriptions.
The blood clots of deep vein thrombosis can be caused by anything that prevents your blood from circulating or clotting normally, such as injury to a vein, surgery, certain medications and limited movement, explains Mayo Clinic.
Blood vessels can become damaged during surgery. This injury can cause the development of a blood clot in an attempt to heal the damage. This is also common in the recovery period after surgery because clots can be caused by reduced mobility or inactivity. When you sit frequently and for long periods, blood can collect in your legs, especially the lower parts. If you are unable to move for extended periods, the blood flow in your legs can slow down. This can cause a clot to develop.
Treatment
Deep vein thrombosis needs to be treated by a doctor.
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If you develop signs or symptoms of a pulmonary embolism — a life-threatening complication of deep vein thrombosis — seek immediate medical attention.
Dietary changes
A healthy diet can in fact be a great start to managing many conditions. Particularly when it comes to DVT, drinking loads of water and eating food that assists in circulation and platelet development can really help.
In addition, dehydration can cause your blood to thicken; increasing your risk for a blood clot says Everyday Health. To stay well hydrated, men and women should consume an average of 8 glasses of water a day.
Powerful antioxidants called polyphenols in purple grape juice and red wine helps keep blood platelets from sticking together and forming clots.
Exercises
Exercise is a double-edged sword when it comes to DVT, as there is a chance that the blood clot can dislodge and move to the organs (causing all sorts of trauma). But, moving around can also help the body with circulation.
Aerobic activity like walking, hiking, swimming, dancing, and jogging can also help your lungs work better after a pulmonary embolism, says Web MD.
Studies show that exercise can also improve symptoms of DVT, including swelling, discomfort and redness. Physical activity can also make you feel more energised.
Again, consult a medical professional before changing your diet or exercise routine. Find out what is safe for you.